Femmes Au Bain c. 1890s

Edgar Degas created “Femmes Au Bain” with pastel on paper during a period when the female nude was a central subject in academic art. During this era, the representation of women in art was frequently idealized and tailored for the male gaze. Degas, however, diverges from the traditional norms of the time, as he was known for his interest in portraying the female form in unposed, candid moments. Here, Degas captures the intimacy of women in their private rituals. The bodies are rendered with soft lines and a subdued palette. The lack of idealization in their forms invites us to consider the female body outside of conventional beauty standards. Degas's work is both personal and reflective, as he said, “It is essential to do the same subject over and over again.” “Femmes Au Bain” offers a glimpse into private moments, shifting away from purely aesthetic appreciation to a more nuanced representation of women's experiences.