Elegant at Billiards (1906)

Artist: Alfred Stevens Year: 1906 Medium: Oil on canvasAlfred Stevens' painting "Elegant at Billiards" exemplifies the artist’s fascination with capturing moments of everyday elegance and social grace. Created in 1906, the painting showcases a female figure poised in the act of playing billiards. Dressed in a long, flowing gown adorned with intricate lace and floral details, her attire conveys the fashion of the era, reflecting both the sophistication and constraints imposed on women’s activities at the time. The rich red background contrasts sharply with her muted dress, drawing the viewer’s focus to her gentle, concentrated demeanor. Her stance conveys movement and poise, a moment frozen as she reaches gracefully across the billiard table.Stevens' attention to detail and texture brings the scene to life, making the viewer feel as if they have stumbled upon a private, serene moment. The delicate play between light and color in the composition adds depth and brings a sense of realism to the portrayal. This painting not only depicts a simple leisure activity but also subtly comments on the roles and expectations of women during the period.This artwork is a splendid example of Stevens' skill in portraying the nuanced interplay of social norms and individual expression.