Reveil 

Alfred Stevens painted "Reveil," or "Awakening," in the late 19th century, a time when Paris was the epicenter of cultural and artistic change. Stevens, positioned to capture the intimate life of a woman of the Parisian bourgeoisie, presents us with a moment of private reflection. Note the contrast between the rich, flowing hair, adorned with flowers, and the woman’s focused gaze in the mirror. The jewels, the delicate fabric of her dress, and the ornate mirror all speak to a life of leisure. The piece invites us to consider the role of women in 19th-century society and the male gaze. Is this painting about beauty and adornment, or does it hint at the complexities and constraints of identity for women in this era? Through "Reveil," Stevens not only captures a fleeting moment of awakening but also prompts a broader reflection on the societal expectations and personal experiences of women during a pivotal time in history.