1841 – 1895
Berthe Morisot, born in Bourges, France in 1841, emerged as one of the most influential female artists of the 19th century. Her artistic journey began with strong familial support; her mother endorsed her ambitions by providing her with a serious art education. This foundation allowed Morisot to flourish, as she immersed herself in copying old-master paintings at the Louvre, studying under the Barbizon painter Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot, and mastering the technique of plein-air (outdoor) painting.
In the 1860s, Morisot developed a close professional relationship with the renowned artist Édouard Manet. This collaboration influenced her style and opened doors to new artistic circles. In 1864, she started submitting her works to the Paris Salon, where she exhibited regularly throughout the decade. A pivotal moment in her career came in 1874 when she was invited to exhibit with the Société Anonyme des Artistes-Peintres, Sculpteurs, Graveurs. This exhibition, now known as the first Impressionist exhibition, marked a significant departure from traditional art forms and solidified Morisot’s place in art history.
Throughout her career, Morisot received considerable critical recognition. However, many 19th- and 20th-century critics emphasized the “feminine” qualities of her work, such as intuitiveness, spontaneity, and delicacy. Despite these gendered interpretations, her artistry was celebrated in prominent exhibitions, including George Petit’s International Exhibition in Paris and Paul Durand-Ruel’s exhibition of Impressionist paintings in New York, both held in 1887.
Morisot’s personal life was intertwined with her professional one. She married Eugène Manet, the brother of Édouard Manet, and they had one daughter, Julie. Julie became a frequent subject in Morisot’s paintings, which often explored the lives of women. One of her notable works, “Jeune femme en toilette de bal,” is displayed at the Musée d’Orsay in Paris and showcases her delicate yet powerful portrayal of feminine subjects.
Berthe Morisot passed away in Paris in 1895, leaving behind a legacy that challenged the conventions of her time and paved the way for future generations of female artists. Her work continues to be celebrated for its originality, emotional depth, and contribution to the Impressionist movement.
