The Curtsey 1898

"The Curtsey" (1898) by William Bouguereau is a stunning example of Academic Realism. This painting features a young girl in a flowing white dress standing in a lush green forest clearing. Her delicate features and innocent expression are expertly rendered, emphasizing her youth and grace. Bouguereau's mastery of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and realism, drawing the viewer into the scene. This work exemplifies the artist's signature style of idealized beauty and sentimental subject matter, which resonated with audiences in the late 19th century.