Woman Drying Her Foot
1885–86
Medium
Pastel on buff wove paper, affixed to original pulpboard mount
Dimensions
19 3/4 x 21 1/4 in. (50.2 x 54 cm)
Classification
Drawings
Department
European Paintings
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
H. O. Havemeyer Collection, Bequest of Mrs. H. O. Havemeyer, 1929
Accession Number
29.100.36
Tags
Art Historical Context
In the late 19th century, Edgar D captured the quiet, everyday rituals of women in private moments, and *Woman Drying Her Foot*1885–86) this fascination. Created during his mature period, this pastel on buff wove paper depicts nude bather in an intimate act of self-care, rendered with Degas's signature Impressionist sensitivity to light, form, and movement. Measuring 19¾ × 21¼ inches, the work is affixed to its original pulpboard mount, preserving the delicate texture of the medium that Degas championed for its vibrant, powdery effects and ability to blend colors seamlessly. Degas, a master o...
About the Artist
Edgar Degas · 1834–1917
Edgar Degas (1834-1917) stands as one of the most innovative artists of the nineteenth century, whose distinctive vision transformed how modern life could be depicted on canvas. Born Hilaire-Germain-Edgar De Gas in Paris to a wealthy banking family—his father French, his mother a Louisiana Creole from New Orleans—Degas received a classical education before abandoning law studies in 1855 to pursue ...