Portrait of Giulia Bellelli (sketch) 1860

Edgar Degas sketched 'Portrait of Giulia Bellelli' without a known date, a piece now residing at Dumbarton Oaks. Degas came from a wealthy family and occupied an elevated social position. His work reflects the politics of gender and class of 19th century France. Giulia, depicted here, was part of the aristocratic Bellelli family. Degas captures her at a tender age, an intimate moment hinting at the constraints placed on women of her class. Consider her stance: hands clasped, gaze averted. This image suggests a careful construction of identity, embodying the decorum expected of young women in privileged circles. Giulia’s youth is palpable, yet the portrait also suggests a premature entry into a world of social expectations. What does it mean to grow up under the gaze of society, where one's identity is shaped by class and gender? Degas invites us to reflect on the delicate balance between personal growth and societal molding.