Artwork

Mlle. Victorine in the Costume of an Espada

Mlle. Victorine in the Costume of an Espada, by Edouard Manet, 1862
Mlle. Victorine in the Costume of an Espada, by Edouard Manet, 1862

Mlle. Victorine in the Costume of an Espada is a print by the Impressionist artist Edouard Manet. It dates from 1862 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Mlle.

About this work

Overview

Mlle. Victorine in the Costume of an Espada is an 1862 print by French artist Édouard Manet, currently in the collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Mlle. Victorine in a hybrid costume, blending everyday attire with elements suggestive of a theatrical or festive Espada (bullfighter) costume, as she twirls or dances amidst a lively scene.

Technique & Style

Characterized by quick, sketchy lines, the work captures a sense of dynamic movement and energy, reflecting Manet's ability to convey spontaneity through his drawing technique.

History & Provenance

Created in 1862, the print's history prior to its acquisition by The Cleveland Museum of Art is not detailed here, highlighting only its current institutional ownership.

Context

The scene suggests a performance, party, or theatrical setting, with background figures playing musical instruments and a horseman, contextualizing Victorine's costume within a possibly festive or theatrical event.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Edouard Manet

Artist

Edouard Manet

Édouard Manet didn’t have much time to make his mark—he died at 51—but he used every year.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.