Before the Mirror

Before the Mirror courtesy of the Guggenheim.org

At the Dressing Table courtesy of Wikipedia

Although my day of museum going didn't go as planned I was able to see a stunning painting by Eduoard Manet. Before the Mirror depicts a French courtesan gazing at her image in the mirror. Although the concept is not as controversial today as it was in 19th century France, the painting itself is breathtaking. The simplicity itself is magnificent as the artist is able to fully capture this ordinary event in such a way that it becomes an art form. The image appears different when looked at various angles and the viewer becomes a part of the painting, looking at the woman as she in turn is observing herself. A hint of mystery is created by the missing reflection in the mirror. I personally enjoyed the light blues that made up the composition. This painting also brought to mind a self portrait done by Zinaida Serebriakova. The self portrait entitled At the Dressing Table, was considered Serebriakova's greatest work of art. Like Manet's Before the Mirror Serebriakova's work is able to impart a sense of mystery and intrigue the viewer. It's interesting to note how a similar occupation could intrigue two very different artists.