The red blouse 1885

Berthe Morisot, a leading female Impressionist, painted this oil on canvas titled ‘The Red Blouse’, and though undated, we know it was likely made in the late 19th century. Morisot, as a woman of the bourgeoisie, offers us a glimpse into the intimate life of women in her social sphere. Her work often revolves around domestic scenes, motherhood, and portraits of women, all of which can be viewed as acts of subtle defiance against the patriarchal norms of her time. The sitter’s gaze evades ours, which imbues the painting with a sense of privacy, a moment captured rather than staged. The vibrant red blouse acts as a focal point, perhaps symbolizing the sitter's energy and passion. What is she thinking? What does the bird in the cage represent? Morisot's work serves as a reminder of the importance of individual expression. She often explored the complexities of identity, particularly within the confines of gender and class expectations, and here the personal is undeniably political.