Berthe Morisot in Black

Berthe Morisot in Black is a defining graphic work created by Édouard Manet French, 1832-1883, between 1872 and 1874. This Print is particularly notable for its complex handling of the lithographic medium. Manet employed dense black ink on off-white chine, which was then meticulously laid down onto heavier ivory wove paper, a process resulting in a rich, velvety black texture. Furthermore, the artist utilized scraping techniques directly on the printing stone to achieve subtle gradations of light and texture, allowing the portrait to emerge dramatically from the deep blacks surrounding the sitter.

The subject is Berthe Morisot (1841-1895), a pioneering Impressionist painter and Manet’s sister-in-law, whom he depicted frequently during this crucial decade of his career. Created in France during a period of immense artistic transition, this intimate portrayal captures the intensity and reserved elegance of Morisot, emphasizing her role as both an intellectual companion and muse. Manet’s approach here moves beyond simple realism, instead focusing on the dramatic effects achieved solely through stark contrast, exemplifying his continuous mastery of black and white tonalities.

This masterwork of French graphic arts is a key piece within the esteemed collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. As one of Manet’s most sophisticated prints, Berthe Morisot in Black remains an essential reference for studying 19th-century printmaking innovation. The widespread recognition of Manet’s contributions ensures that high-resolution reproductions of his major works are often made available in the public domain for scholarly research and artistic appreciation worldwide.