Woman with a Muff c. 1860 - 1864

Constantin Guys created “Woman with a Muff” with pen and brown wash on paper. Guys worked as a military artist, and was known for his sketches of urban life, particularly in London and Paris. During the 19th century the image of women was shaped by societal expectations and gender roles, often portrayed as domestic figures. Here, the woman’s gaze avoids engaging directly with the viewer, perhaps reflecting the limited agency afforded to women in public spaces. The muff, a fashion accessory, seems almost like a barrier, obscuring part of her body and possibly symbolizing the restrictions placed upon women’s physical and social presence. Guys’s sketches capture fleeting moments, but they also reveal the underlying dynamics of gender and class in the rapidly changing urban environment. The woman's attire and accessories signal her social standing, reflecting the importance of appearance in navigating social hierarchies. The artwork offers a glimpse into the complexities of women’s lives in the 19th century, inviting us to consider the subtle ways in which identity and social expectations intersect.