Embers Glow 1890 - 1897

Theodore Roussel created "Embers Glow" using etching and aquatint. The woman, who appears to be gazing at an ember, may be lost in her own thoughts. In contrast to the artistic norms of the time, Roussel challenges the male gaze by inviting viewers to consider the emotional and intellectual depths of his female subject. The woman’s ambiguous expression and the mysterious shadows that surround her encourage us to see beyond the surface, and to contemplate the complexities of female identity and experience. Roussel was actively involved in the aesthetic movement, and his art often explored themes of beauty, sensuality, and the human experience. As such, this piece reflects the changing roles of women during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when traditional representations of femininity were being questioned. This piece offers a nuanced exploration of gender, identity, and emotional depth.