Woman in a Ruffled Cap

Woman in a Ruffled Cap is an intimate, early study created by Edgar Degas between 1859 and 1860, demonstrating his proficiency in graphic arts. Executed in the complex medium of etching on wove paper, this work originates from a period when Degas was deeply committed to mastering classical drawing and the techniques of printmaking, often copying and interpreting Old Masters.

This print captures the detailed visage of an unidentified woman, whose expression is one of reserved concentration. Degas utilizes the etching needle to create delicate, controlled lines that define the structure of the face and the complex textures of the ruffled fabric surrounding her head. The contrast between light and shadow is meticulously handled, underscoring the artist’s commitment to realism and draftsmanship long before his transition toward the Impressionist movement. The precision required for etching highlights Degas’s foundational skill as a preparatory draftsman, a quality essential to all of his subsequent work in painting and sculpture.

Unlike his later lithographs and monotypes, this early etching follows established academic traditions, emphasizing form and expression over immediate sensation. The technique allows for sharp delineation, defining the contours of the figure against the paper. This significant piece is categorized as a Print and confirms Degas’s dedication to mastering graphic media throughout his career. It resides in the respected permanent collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, and its availability through reference collections and, in some cases, public domain archives, ensures continued study of this master's graphic contributions.