Young Lady in 1866

Édouard Manet

1866

Young Lady in 1866 by Édouard Manet, 1866

Manet captures a striking figure in a flowing white dressing gown, standing somewhat stiffly against a dark, moody background. She holds a small violet to her nose, while a grey parrot perches nearby on a wooden stand, adding a touch of exotic whimsy to the scene. The loose brushwork and the casual setting—note the peeled fruit on the floor—show Manet moving away from stiff academic portraits toward a more modern, candid style. The model is believed to be Victorine Meurent, famous for posing as the scandalous nude in 'Olympia', making her fully clothed appearance here a fascinating contrast.

Technique
Oil on canvas

Location: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

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