At the Exposition Palace 

Berthe Morisot created "At the Exposition Palace" using pastel on paper. Morisot, as a woman in 19th-century France, navigated a society that often confined women to domestic roles. Her ability to become a respected Impressionist painter was a testament to her determination. The image of a woman in the foreground, gazing downward, is framed by the architectural backdrop of the Exposition Palace. We can sense a tension between the private, personal space of the woman and the vast, public space of the Exposition. Morisot often explored the experiences of women within these spheres. The woman's posture and contemplative stance could mirror the nuanced position of women in a rapidly changing society. Were they confined to the private sphere, or were they allowed access to the public? The artist’s portrayal invites us to reflect on the complexities of identity and societal expectations, and on the intersection of personal experience and broader cultural narratives.