Woman Arranging Her Hair

"Woman Arranging Her Hair," created by Camille Pissarro in 1894, is an intimate and technically complex graphic work. Classified as a unique print, the piece utilizes the monotype technique, rendered using black and red inks on wove paper. Monotypes were favored by Pissarro in the 1890s as they allowed for a spontaneous, painterly fluidity distinct from the repetitive nature of traditional etching or lithography. The process requires the artist to paint directly onto a plate, yielding only one highly saturated impression.

The subject focuses on a common 19th-century domestic theme: a woman caught in the private action of arranging her hair. The deep, expressive lines of the black ink define the figure and surrounding space, while sparse touches of red provide subtle accents, potentially suggesting a ribbon or element of clothing, injecting warmth into the composition. Pissarro was deeply concerned with depicting everyday life and often focused his attention on the quiet, dignified routines of women. This study in light and shadow captures a moment of quiet reflection, emphasizing the woman’s concentration on her task.

The creation of this specific monotype exemplifies Pissarro's dedication to experimenting with diverse prints mediums late in his career, pushing the boundaries of graphic art. This unique impression is held in the renowned collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it serves as a significant example of Pissarro’s nuanced late Impressionist style. As this work transitions into the public domain, it continues to be celebrated for its technical mastery and insightful portrayal of domestic modernity.