Madame Théodore Gobillard (Yves Morisot, 1838–1893) (1869)

Welcome to our website, where today we feature a captivating piece from Edgar Degas, renowned for his mastery in painting, sculpture, and printmaking. We proudly present "Madame Théodore Gobillard (Yves Morisot, 1838–1893)" completed in 1869, a portrait that beautifully illustrates Degas's skillful deployment of pastel to capture both character and mood.This painting portrays Madame Théodore Gobillard, born Yves Morisot, who was the sister of the famous impressionist painter Berthe Morisot and a notable figure herself within the Parisian art scene. In this composition, Degas captures her looking to the side, her gaze seemingly lost in thought. The bust portrait shows Madame Gobillard dressed in a dark garment, her hair meticulously styled in braids that add texture and detail to the image.The backdrop is softly blurred, with gentle brushstrokes suggesting a tranquil setting, possibly a garden, enhancing the thoughtful and serene atmosphere of the portrait. Degas’s use of light and shadow plays across her face, revealing a contemplative expression that invites viewers to ponder about the subject’s thoughts.This work not only showcases Degas's technical excellence but also offers a window into the private life and personality of Yves Morisot. It stands as a testament to the personal connections and intersections within the vibrant network of artists in 19th-century Paris. The painting invites admirers to appreciate the depth and subtlety of Degas’s portraits, far beyond the movement and dynamism for which his dance and movement pieces are known.