Artwork
Young Woman Climbing a Step
Young Woman Climbing a Step is a chalk drawing by the Impressionist artist French 19th Century. It dates from 1894 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Young Woman Climbing a Step is a drawing executed in black chalk heightened with white chalk on blue laid paper. It depicts a woman in a long dress ascending a single step.
Subject & Meaning
The figure, shown from behind, raises one arm, suggesting a gesture of balance or reaching. The simplicity of the scene and the subject's everyday attire imply a focus on mundane activity.
Technique & Style
The artist employed bold, expressive strokes to define the subject's form, particularly in the dress, while leaving other areas, such as the face, minimally detailed. The contrast between black and white chalk on blue paper creates a sense of depth.
Artist & collection
Artist
This sculptor liked to keep sharp tools in the studio and blunt ones in his pocket—his niece recalled finding him absentmindedly whittling a stick while talking philosophy.
