After the Bath 1883

Edgar Degas created this pastel drawing, “After the Bath”, during the late 19th century in France. Here, Degas presents a bather in a private moment, a theme that reflects a broader interest in representing modern life. But it's not just about capturing a fleeting moment. Think about the context in which this was made: France during the late 1800s was a society undergoing rapid change, and the art world was no exception. Traditional academic painting was being challenged by artists seeking new ways of representing the world around them. Degas was associated with the Impressionists, a group known for their interest in capturing the fleeting effects of light and movement. They often depicted scenes of modern life, from bustling city streets to intimate domestic interiors. Yet, this work also departs from Impressionist style in its emphasis on line and interiority. To truly understand a work like this, we need to consider its place in this complex web of social and institutional forces. What were the prevailing attitudes towards women and the female body at the time? How did the art market shape the production and reception of such images? By exploring these questions, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the ways in which art both reflects and shapes our understanding of the world.