Adéle de Saussure and Marie-Louise Ravel, the Artist's Wife, in His Studio 1877

Edouard Ravel painted this watercolor titled "Adéle de Saussure and Marie-Louise Ravel, the Artist's Wife, in His Studio" in 1877. It depicts two women in an artist's studio. The image presents us with a glimpse into the private world of artistic creation. It reveals the cultural milieu in which art was produced. Painted in France, a country with a rich artistic heritage, Ravel’s studio is adorned with classical busts and sketches, reflecting the academic traditions of the time. The presence of women—the artist's wife and another, possibly a patron—suggests the evolving role of women in the art world, both as subjects and participants. This artwork serves as a historical document, offering insight into the social dynamics of the late 19th-century art world. Analyzing exhibition records, artists’ biographies, and social commentaries from the period could reveal even more about the cultural values. The meaning of this artwork is contingent on its historical and social context.