Edgar Degas – Woman by the Toilette, 1897 Sotheby’s

Here we observe a figure rendered in pastel on paper, occupying nearly the entire composition. The subject appears to be a woman, captured in a moment of quiet introspection or perhaps melancholy. She is seated upon what seems to be a cushioned surface, her posture suggesting a degree of withdrawal and vulnerability. Her head is bowed, obscuring much of her facial expression, while her arms are crossed over her chest, further reinforcing this sense of inwardness.
The artist’s handling of the medium is notable. The pastel strokes are loose and expressive, creating a textured surface that contributes to the overall mood. Theres an immediacy to the application; it feels less like a carefully constructed image and more like a fleeting observation captured on paper. The color palette is muted, dominated by earthy tones – creams, browns, and pinks – with touches of blue and green providing contrast. These colors are not blended smoothly but rather layered, creating a sense of depth and complexity within the limited tonal range.
The background is fragmented into blocks of color that do not offer spatial cues or context. They function more as atmospheric elements, contributing to the overall feeling of isolation and confinement. The lack of clear perspective and the flattened space contribute to a sense of ambiguity; it’s difficult to discern where the figure ends and the surrounding environment begins.
Subtly, theres an exploration of the female form beyond mere representation. It is not presented as idealized or overtly sensual but rather as a study in posture and gesture – a contemplation of inner states reflected through physical bearing. The obscured face invites speculation about her thoughts and emotions, transforming the subject from a portrait into a symbol of quiet suffering or private reflection. The composition’s intimacy suggests a glimpse into a personal moment, observed with a detached yet empathetic gaze.