An artwork on Galleree from Minneapolis Institute of Art.
About the artwork
Portrait of Mademoiselle Dubois1884
Artist: Alfred Stevens
Belgian, 1823 - 1906
woman wearing a black hat, short maroon cape, long tan gloves and grey skirt, holding purple flowers and leaning on a black iron rail; tan awning behind woman; trees and foliage behind railing
27 1/2 x 21 7/16 in. (69.85 x 54.45 cm) (sight)
33 1/2 x 27 7/16 in. (85.09 x 69.69 cm) (outer frame)
Oil on canvas
Painting
Belgium
19th century
Gift of funds from the Paintings Curatorial Council 2007 Germany trip members, the Paintings Curatorial Council's George S. Keyes Discretionary Fund, and the Ethel Morrison Van Derlip Fund
Alfred Stevens, a name whispered in the circles of Parisian art, was known for his enchanting portrayals of beautifully dressed women, each one draped in the elegance of la belle Parisienne. But amidst these sumptuous creations, a single portrait stood boldly apart. It was the Portrait of Mademoiselle Dubois, a striking piece born from Stevens' keen observation of one of his own students—an individual he had come to know well.
In this intriguing canvas, the young woman stands out, her gaze sharp and appraising, piercing through the viewer with a sense of confidence that captivates. Her posture is relaxed yet exudes strength, a daring moment captured with precise brushstrokes. This was not just a mere likeness but a testament to Stevens’ deep appreciation for her intelligence and character.
Behind her stretches a stark awning, its simplicity making her presence even more pronounced—a clever backdrop that frames her beauty while revealing layers of her spirit. The contrast between the bold color of the awning and her figure creates a striking yet serene dialogue, a visual interplay that invites admiration and contemplation.
Stevens’ innovative use of this modern setting echoes the artistic explorations of his close friend, Edouard Manet. It speaks of a time when such bold choices were not just fashionable but revolutionary. In that moment, one can see Stevens grappling with fresh ideas, a reflection of the burgeoning modernity of the art world around him.
Moreover, the compressed space surrounding Mademoiselle Dubois shows that Stevens was not merely echoing Parisian styles. He had an eye turned towards the East, particularly captivated by Japanese aesthetics, among the first in Paris to collect their art. This portrait is not just a window into one moment; it’s a bridge connecting cultures and ideas, showcasing the vibrant dialogue of a changing world.
In the Portrait of Mademoiselle Dubois, the viewer experiences an intersection of beauty and intellect, where a moment is captured that invokes inspiration and reverberates through time.
About the artist
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