Ducks at Rest on the Bank 1888 - 1890

Berthe Morisot made this etching, Ducks at Rest on the Bank, at an unknown date. It depicts a seemingly tranquil waterside scene of resting ducks and some reeds and foliage, but let's think about the socio-cultural context. Morisot was part of the Impressionist circle in France, a group that challenged the established art institutions of the time. In 19th century France, the École des Beaux-Arts and the Salon system dictated what was considered acceptable art. The Impressionists, with their loose brushwork and focus on everyday subjects, were initially rejected by these institutions. Morisot, as a woman artist, faced additional hurdles. The art world was dominated by men, and women were often excluded from formal training and exhibition opportunities. Despite these challenges, she and other female Impressionists carved out a space for themselves, critiquing the conservative norms of the art world and the broader social structures that limited women's opportunities. To fully appreciate Morisot's work, historians consult exhibition records, letters, and critical reviews to understand the social and institutional forces at play. Ultimately, art's meaning is not fixed but evolves with its social and institutional context.