Degas, Edgar – combed woman Hermitage ~ part 04

The pastel drawing presents a female figure viewed from behind, engaged in a private and intimate moment. Here we see a woman seated on what appears to be a draped chair or bench, her body angled slightly towards the viewer. Her arms are raised above her head, as if she is combing or arranging her hair, creating a dynamic curve that emphasizes the line of her spine.
The artist’s handling of color and texture contributes significantly to the works overall effect. A warm palette dominates – ochres, yellows, and muted browns – which lends a sense of softness and immediacy to the depiction of skin tones. The application is loose and expressive; pastel strokes are visible, creating a tactile surface that suggests movement and spontaneity. The drapery, rendered in cooler blues and greens, provides a visual contrast and defines the space around the figure.
The composition is notable for its focus on the back – a body part often overlooked in traditional portraiture. This choice shifts the emphasis from conventional notions of beauty or representation to an exploration of form and posture. The woman’s face is partially obscured, further contributing to the sense of privacy and introspection. She isnt presented as an object of display but rather captured in a fleeting moment of self-care.
Subtexts within the drawing suggest themes of femininity, vulnerability, and domesticity. The act of combing hair can be interpreted as a ritualistic gesture, connecting the figure to notions of personal grooming and identity. The setting – the draped chair – implies an interior space, hinting at a private world removed from public view. There is a quietness about the scene; it feels like a stolen glimpse into someone’s routine.
The drawings strength lies in its ability to convey a sense of immediacy and intimacy through its loose technique and unconventional subject matter. It avoids sentimentality while simultaneously evoking a feeling of tenderness and observation.