The Pink Dress (Albertie-Marguerite Carré, later Madame Ferdinand-Henri Himmes, 1854–1935)
Berthe Morisot
"The Pink Dress" is a painting by Berthe Morisot, created around 1870. The work features Albertie-Marguerite Carré, who later became Madame Ferdinand-Henri Himmes. Morisot was a prominent figure in the Impressionist movement, known for her delicate brushwork and focus on domestic life and women's experiences. The painting exemplifies Morisot's ability to capture the subtleties of light and color, particularly in the depiction of fabric and skin tones. The subject's attire, characterized by its soft pink hue, reflects the fashion of the time and highlights Morisot's interest in contemporary themes. The exact circumstances of the painting's commission or its initial reception are unknown. "The Pink Dress" is part of the collection at the Musée d'Orsay in Paris.
"The Pink Dress" by Berthe Morisot features a young woman dressed in a delicate pink gown, seated against a softly rendered background. The figure is depicted in a three-quarter pose, with her head turned slightly to the left, allowing for a glimpse of her profile. Morisot employs a light palette dominated by pastel hues, which enhances the ethereal quality of the composition. The brushwork is loose and fluid, characteristic of Morisot's Impressionist style, creating a sense of immediacy and intimacy. The play of light on the fabric of the dress is captured through subtle variations in color and texture, emphasizing the garment's softness. The background is composed of muted tones that recede, allowing the figure to emerge as the focal point of the painting. The overall composition conveys a sense of grace and poise, reflecting the artist's sensitivity to the subject's femininity.