The Banks of the Seine 1894

Berthe Morisot captured this scene of "The Banks of the Seine" with watercolor on paper. In it, we see figures along the riverbank, some sheltered under umbrellas, and boats gently gliding on the water. The umbrella, a recurring motif, transcends mere practicality. Its origins trace back to ancient civilizations, serving as symbols of status and protection. In ancient Egypt and Asia, parasols shielded nobles from the sun. This symbol evolved into the umbrellas we see today. Consider how the umbrella's symbolism subtly shifts across time. In Morisot's era, it signified bourgeois respectability, a delicate barrier against the elements for both men and women. However, across contexts, it becomes a tool for both hiding and revealing, an emotional shield. Morisot captures the interplay of concealment and exposure, reflecting a delicate balance between private emotions and public presentation. This seemingly simple object holds layers of meaning. This is a non-linear progression, reappearing, evolving, and taking on new meanings through different historical contexts.