1046

About this artwork

Studie of portret van een meisje. Haar schouder weergegeven van opzij met haar gezicht en blik in haar ogen naar beschouwer gewend, haar hoofd ondersteunt zij met haar hand.

Art Historical Context

"1046" is a delicate lithograph by Camille Bourget, created in 1895. Measuring 260mm by334mm, this intimate study—or portrait—of a young girl captures her in a contemplative pose: her shoulder viewed from the side, face turned toward the viewer with direct gaze, and head gently supported by her hand. composition evokes a sense of quiet introspection, drawing the observer into a personal moment frozen in time. Lithography, the medium Bourget employs here, was a revolutionary printmaking technique in the late 19th century, for its ability to replicate the fluid lines and tonal subtleties of drawing. Popularized by artists like Toulouse-Lautrec, it allowed for affordable, high-quality reproductions during the fin-de-siècle era, bridging fine art and mass culture. Bourget's choice reflects this innovative spirit, transforming a simple portrait study into an accessible artwork that highlights the girl's expressive features and poised vulnerability. This piece offers a glimpse into everyday portraiture of the Belle Époque, where subtle gestures conveyed deep emotion. Though Bourget remains lesser-known today, works like this underscore the era's fascination with the human psyche, inviting museum visitors to ponder the girl's story through her steady, engaging eyes.