On the Sofa

"On the Sofa" is an early work by Berthe Morisot, believed to depict her mother and sister, exemplifying her talent in genre painting. Created around 1869–1870, the oil-on-canvas piece showcases Morisot’s developing Impressionism style, characterized by loose brushwork and a focus on domestic intimacy. The painting captures a quiet moment of everyday life, emphasizing the subtle interplay of light and shadow. Though traditional in subject matter, Morisot’s technique hints at the innovative approaches of Impressionism, making it a significant work exhibited at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.