The subject of this portrait, Hortense Valpincon, was the only daughter of Paul Valpincon, Degas's friend from childhood. Degas would frequently visit the Valpincons at their country estate, Menil-Hubert, in Normandy where members of family would pose for the artist. This portrait, an rich and playful piece, was recalled many decades later by Hortense as being painted onto a scrap piece of mattress ticking as Degas did not bring a canvas with him on this particular trip to Menil-Hubert.
SKU: 6803
Creator: Edgar Degas
Date: c. 1871
Original Medium: Oil on mattress ticking
Original Size: 29 3/4 x 44 3/4 in.
Location: Minneapolis Institute of Arts