After the Bath (large version) 1891 - 1892

Edgar Degas created this print, "After the Bath," using etching and aquatint. The late 19th century saw the rise of Impressionism, and artists like Degas often sought to capture fleeting moments of everyday life. Here, we see a woman, caught in a private moment, attending to herself after bathing. The image offers an intimate, almost voyeuristic, glimpse into her personal space. Degas was drawn to the female nude, but unlike traditional representations that idealized the female form, he presented his subjects in more naturalistic poses. The woman's identity remains unknown. Her downcast gaze and the lack of idealization challenge the conventional male gaze prevalent in art history. Instead, Degas seems interested in exploring the quiet, unglamorous aspects of women's lives. There is something deeply human and vulnerable about this portrayal, inviting us to consider the diverse experiences and realities of women during his time. In this way, Degas' print pushes against the traditional boundaries of representation, and prompts reflection on the complexities of identity, privacy, and the female experience.