Henri Lebasque – Marthe and Nono, 1917 Sotheby’s

The composition presents two women seated in what appears to be a garden setting, bathed in warm sunlight. The artist has arranged them close together, creating a sense of intimacy and shared leisure. One woman is engrossed in reading from a sheet of paper held in her hands; her posture suggests concentration and quiet absorption. She wears a striped dress with a sailor-like collar and a distinctive hat adorned with vertical orange and white stripes. A string of pearls encircles her neck, adding a touch of elegance to the scene.
The other woman is positioned slightly forward, her gaze directed towards the reader. Her attire consists of a light blue dress and a wide-brimmed hat decorated with floral accents. She holds a fan in her hand, which she manipulates gently, contributing to an atmosphere of relaxed refinement. The background is rendered in soft, blurred tones of green and pink, suggesting foliage and dappled sunlight filtering through leaves.
The color palette is dominated by pastel hues – blues, pinks, greens, and whites – evoking a sense of tranquility and idyllic beauty. Brushstrokes are loose and visible, characteristic of an impressionistic style, which lends the scene a vibrant, almost shimmering quality. The light plays across their faces and clothing, creating subtle variations in tone and texture.
Beyond the surface depiction of leisure and companionship, there’s a suggestion of social standing and domesticity. Their attire indicates a comfortable lifestyle, while the act of reading implies education and cultural engagement. The closeness between them hints at familial or close friendship ties. The overall impression is one of privileged repose during a period marked by significant societal shifts; the scene offers a glimpse into a world of quiet elegance and refined enjoyment, seemingly untouched by the larger historical context.