La Toilette – Woman Combing Her Hair – 1907 -1908 Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1841-1919)

The composition presents a woman engaged in a private ritual – the act of combing her hair before a mirror. The scene is intimate and domestic, suggesting a moment of solitude and self-reflection. Here we see a figure viewed from behind, emphasizing the physicality of the action rather than focusing on facial expression or direct engagement with the viewer.
The artist employed a muted palette dominated by earthy tones – ochres, browns, and greens – which contribute to an atmosphere of quiet contemplation. The light source appears diffused, bathing the scene in a soft glow that softens edges and minimizes harsh contrasts. This creates a sense of immediacy and spontaneity, as if the viewer has stumbled upon a fleeting moment.
The woman’s posture is slightly hunched, her arm extended behind her head to facilitate the combing action. The loose-fitting garment she wears – seemingly a simple slip or chemise – reveals the curve of her back and shoulder, hinting at a relaxed and unposed state. Her hair, dark and flowing, cascades down her back, adding visual weight to the composition.
The mirror itself is rendered with a degree of impressionistic looseness; its reflection isnt sharply defined but rather suggested through brushstrokes that capture the play of light on its surface. The ornate frame surrounding the mirror provides a decorative counterpoint to the simplicity of the woman’s attire and the overall scene. It also serves as a compositional anchor, grounding the figure within the space.
Beyond the literal depiction of grooming, the painting seems to explore themes of femininity, vanity, and self-perception. The act of combing ones hair can be interpreted as a ritualistic preparation, not just for outward appearance but perhaps for an internal state of being. The obscured face invites speculation about her thoughts and emotions during this private moment. There’s a sense that the artist is less interested in portraying a specific individual than in capturing a universal experience – the quiet moments of self-care and introspection that define human existence.

The background, with its patterned wallpaper, adds depth to the scene while maintaining an overall sense of ambiguity. The pattern itself isnt clearly defined, contributing to the painting’s dreamlike quality.