Gypsy in Reflection

Courbet's images of the nude, such as those seen in Bathing Women (Musée Fabre, Montpellier), incurred public indignation with their depiction of uncouth, less than ideal figures, and they eventually led to scandal. On the other hand, his images of clothed women, with their expression of his splendid sense of realism, received wide acclaim. This work was painted in 1869, when Courbet was socially accepted and came to maturity. A young gypsy with luxuriant hair falling around her shoulders stands in deep reflection. The close-up view of the woman's torso provides an excellent example of Courbet's superb sense of sensuality, however we can also find a quiet poesy in this work. Courbet struck an aggressive posture in the face of power throughout his life, and was quite self-revealing. Courbet's sentiments are apparent in this image of a gypsy lost in thought. (Source: Masterpieces of the National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo, 2009, cat. no.64)