At the Milliner
- Original dimensions
- 86.4 x 76.2 cm
- Museum
- Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Year
- 1882
Scene depicted
In this canvas , Degas finely illustrates a scene from a Parisian fashion salon, where elegant women indulge in the pleasures of fashion. The meticulously painted details of each dress, from the shimmering fabrics to the delicate gestures of the characters, testify to the art and passion that animate this universe. The natural light flooding the room enhances the textures and colors, awakening the senses and immersing the viewer in an intimate and luxurious atmosphere.
Historical context
Created in the heart of Paris, this painting is one of the major works of the Impressionist movement, characterized by its explorations of light and movement. Completed in 1882, at a time when the city was in full artistic effervescence, At the Milliner evokes not only Degas's talent but also a Parisian atmosphere where fashion and art meet. Currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art , this canvas invites us to discover a fascinating era through its carefully measured dimensions.
Place in the artist's career
At the Milliner represents a pivotal moment in Degas's journey. A pioneer of Impressionism , he stands out for his ability to capture moments of modern life. This canvas fits into a period of maturity in his art, parallel to other masterpieces like Absinthe and Ballet Rehearsal , where the technique evolves with increasingly bold plays of light.
Anecdote
Degas often said: “Painting is the reflection of life that flows.” He viewed his art as a way to capture the ephemeral. Imagine a sunny morning, a bustling street in Paris, where the voices of milliners mingle with the whispers of clients. It is in this vibrant setting that At the Milliner comes to life, caught between the delicacy of its characters and the energy of a world in turmoil.