L'intime 1877 - 1878

‘L’intime’ is an undated soft-ground etching by Edgar Degas, now housed at the Statens Museum for Kunst. Degas was working during a period of significant social change. Traditional hierarchies were being questioned, and new ideas about identity were emerging, particularly concerning gender roles. Degas is often noted for his focus on women, especially ballet dancers, and his work can be seen as a reflection on the roles available to women at the time. ‘L’intime’ invites us to reflect on the private lives of women in 19th-century France, portraying an intimate, domestic scene. This etching captures a sense of vulnerability and introspection. It is easy to imagine the emotional weight of societal expectations, and the constraints placed on women's self-expression. Through its delicate lines and subtle shading, ‘L’intime’ offers a window into the inner world of women, sparking a dialogue about identity, representation, and the unspoken narratives of the past.