Paper

Student Artwork Guide

On the Sofa

Berthe Morisot, 1871

Name Class Date
Berthe Morisot, On the Sofa (1871), Nationalmuseum. Public domain. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Berthe Morisot originaluniqueart.com/en/artists/berthe-morisot/
Artist’s dates
1841 – 1895
Painted
1871
Medium
Oil On Canvas
Movement
Impressionist Movement
Held at
Nationalmuseum originaluniqueart.com/en/museums/nationalmuseum-stockholm/
Artistic style
Domestic genre painting
Influences
Corot, Manet
Notable elements
Intimate scene, muted tones
Subject or theme
Woman on a sofa

Copyright This work is in the public domain. Berthe Morisot died in 1895; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it ended in 1965.

Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 27, 2026

On the Sofa — Berthe Morisot Part 1 · The artwork

In context

On the Sofa — Berthe Morisot

When was this painted?

  1. 1840
  2. 1850
  3. 1860
  4. 1870
  5. 1880
  6. 1890

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 54 at death.

Painted when the artist was 30. The artist lived to 54. 15 of the 241 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.

Shaded: the lifetime of Berthe Morisot (1841–1895) ▲ this work, 1871 every dated painting, decade by decade

First works: up to 1879 Main working years: 1879–1889 Late works: from 1889

Those three bands split the works this catalogue has a date for into a first quarter, a middle half and a last quarter. They are not the artist’s complete output: a thin stretch may be a gap in the record rather than a quiet spell. The same years with the artist’s life laid along them

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: originaluniqueart.com/en/art/similar/berthe-morisot-on-the-sofa-8EWCTW-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Putty #f5deb3

    Catalogued palette

    • #F5DEB3
    • #DFB87F
    • #4F3029
    • #AB754C

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Palette
    Pastels The dominant colour family in the image.
    Main colour name
    Putty
    Intensity
    Vivid How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Bold How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Strong Color Unity How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Brilliant How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Balanced Soft How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by Berthe Morisot over the last twelve months — 32 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 57.8%
    2. 2 Japan 7.3%
    3. 3 United States of America 5.9%
    4. 4 Singapore 4.7%
    5. 5 Spain 3.5%
    6. 6 Hong Kong 3.5%
    7. 7 France 3.3%
    8. 8 Germany 2.6%
    9. 9 Italy 2.3%
    10. 10 Brazil 1.4%
    11. · 22 other countries 7.7%

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 20 most looked-at works by Berthe Morisot

    1. 1 The Hydrangea, 1894 2.8%
    2. 2 The Cradle, 1872 2.4%
    3. 3 The Garden at Bougival, 1884 2.4%
    4. 4 A Corner of the Rose Garden, 1885 2.2%
    5. 5 Psyche, 1876 2.2%
    6. 6 Girl with Cat, 1892 1.9%
    7. 7 The Quay at Bougival, 1883 1.7%
    8. 8 In the Garden at Maurecourt, 1884 1.7%
    9. 9 Eugene Manet on the Isle of Wight 1.3%
    10. 10 In the Dining Room, 1875 1.3%
    11. 11 Young Woman Dressed for the Ball, 1879 1.3%
    12. 12 Summer (also known as Young Woman by a Window), 1878 1.3%
    13. 13 Julie Manet and her Greyhound Laerte, 1893 1.3%
    14. 14 Child in the Rose Garden, 1881 1.3%
    15. 15 The Artist's Sister Edma with Her Daughter Jeanne, 1872 1.3%
    16. 16 The Harbor at Lorient, 1869 1.3%
    17. 17 Paule Gobillard Painting, 1886 1.1%
    18. 18 Girl in a Boat, with Geese, 1889 1.1%
    19. 19 On the Balcony of Eugene Manet's Room at Bougival, 1881 1.1%
    20. 35 On the Sofa, 1871 this painting 0.7%

    Together these works take 31.7% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 331 works by this artist, of which 214 were looked at at least once. This painting ranks 35 of them, with 0.7% of that attention. The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 27, 2026

    On the Sofa — Berthe Morisot Part 2 · In context

    About this artwork

    On the Sofa — Berthe Morisot

    Berthe Morisot’s “On the Sofa”: A Moment of Intimacy in Impressionist Light

    Berthe Morisot's "On the Sofa," painted in 1871, isn’t merely a depiction of a woman reading; it’s a carefully constructed tableau of domestic tranquility and quiet contemplation – a window into the private world of a Parisian bourgeois family during the cusp of modern art. This intimate scene, rendered with Morisot's signature delicate brushwork and luminous palette, exemplifies the Impressionist movement’s fascination with capturing fleeting moments and subjective experience rather than striving for photographic realism.

    The painting immediately draws the eye to the central figure, a woman seated on a richly upholstered sofa. Her posture is relaxed yet attentive, suggesting she's deeply absorbed in her book – though the specific text remains tantalizingly unseen. Morisot masterfully employs light and shadow to create a sense of depth and atmosphere. The room is bathed in soft, diffused light, likely filtered through a window, casting gentle shadows that soften the forms and contribute to the painting’s overall feeling of warmth and serenity. Notice how she has used broken brushstrokes to capture the texture of the fabric and the subtle play of light on its surface – a technique crucial to Morisot's distinctive style.

    A Glimpse into Parisian Life and Artistic Circles

    To fully appreciate “On the Sofa,” it’s essential to understand the context in which it was created. The late 19th century witnessed significant social and artistic shifts in Paris, with a growing emphasis on individualism and a rejection of academic conventions. Morisot, along with fellow Impressionists like Monet and Renoir, sought to capture the essence of modern life – not grand historical events or mythological scenes, but rather everyday moments experienced by ordinary people. Her close friendship with Édouard Manet, a pivotal figure in the Impressionist movement, undoubtedly influenced her artistic development; he was a frequent subject of her paintings, and she often shared studio space with him.

    The presence of two chairs behind the woman – one slightly closer to the viewer – subtly suggests a scene unfolding within a larger domestic setting. It’s a detail that adds depth and narrative complexity to the composition, hinting at the lives of others present in the room. The inclusion of a vase on the sofa further reinforces this sense of domesticity, adding a touch of decorative elegance to the scene.

    Symbolism and Emotional Resonance

    While seemingly simple, “On the Sofa” is rich with symbolic meaning. The act of reading represents intellectual pursuit, personal reflection, and escape – all highly valued pursuits for women of the era, often confined to domestic roles. The woman’s posture suggests a state of contentment and self-possession, reflecting Morisot's own quiet confidence as an artist. The muted color palette—predominantly browns, creams, and greens—evokes a sense of comfort and familiarity, while the soft lighting contributes to the painting’s overall feeling of intimacy and warmth.

    Morisot’s choice to depict a woman engaged in a solitary activity was groundbreaking for its time. It challenged traditional representations of women in art, which often focused on their roles as wives and mothers. Instead, Morisot presented a woman as an individual with her own interests and passions – a subject worthy of artistic attention in her own right.

    A Legacy of Delicate Beauty

    "On the Sofa" stands as a testament to Berthe Morisot’s extraordinary talent and her pivotal role in the development of Impressionism. It's a painting that invites viewers to pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of everyday moments. Reproductions of this work capture the delicate nuances of Morisot’s brushwork and the luminous quality of her palette, allowing us to experience the same sense of tranquility and intimacy that she so skillfully conveyed on canvas. It remains a poignant reminder of a woman's quiet strength and artistic vision in a rapidly changing world.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 27, 2026

    On the Sofa — Berthe Morisot Part 3 · About this artwork

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Berthe Morisot

    Born in Bourges, France

    A Life Immersed in Light and Intimacy

    Berthe Morisot, born in Bourges, France, in 1841, emerged as a pivotal figure within the Impressionist movement, yet her story extends far beyond simply being a “female Impressionist.” To define her solely by gender diminishes the profound originality of her artistic vision and her unwavering commitment to capturing the fleeting moments of modern life. Descended from a bourgeois family with artistic lineage – she was related to the celebrated Rococo painter Jean-Honoré Fragonard – Morisot received an education uncommon for women of her era, one that nurtured her innate talent and fostered a lifelong dedication to painting. Early lessons with Geoffroy-Alphonse Chocarne and Joseph Guichard provided foundational skills, but it was exposure to the masterpieces within the Louvre, copying works by the Old Masters, that truly ignited her artistic sensibility. This period of rigorous training laid the groundwork for her later explorations of light, color, and form. The influence of Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot proved particularly significant; his emphasis on plein air painting – working outdoors directly from nature – became a cornerstone of Morisot’s approach, allowing her to capture the ephemeral qualities of light and atmosphere with remarkable sensitivity.

    Navigating the Impressionist Circle

    Morisot's artistic journey intertwined closely with that of Édouard Manet, whom she met in 1864. Their relationship was one of mutual respect and intellectual exchange, with Manet serving as a mentor and friend. He painted her numerous times, immortalizing her presence within his own evolving style. However, Morisot wasn’t merely a subject; she actively participated in the burgeoning Impressionist movement, becoming a founding member alongside Monet, Degas, Renoir, and Pissarro. In 1874, she boldly exhibited with this group of “rejected” artists, defying the conservative standards of the official Salon. This first Impressionist exhibition marked a turning point in art history, challenging traditional academic conventions and paving the way for new modes of artistic expression. Morisot participated in nearly all subsequent Impressionist exhibitions, consistently showcasing her unique perspective and solidifying her position within the avant-garde. Her work, often depicting intimate scenes of domestic life – women reading, mothers with children, leisurely moments in gardens – offered a distinctly feminine gaze, challenging prevailing societal norms and expanding the scope of acceptable subject matter for female artists.

    A Distinctive Artistic Voice

    What sets Morisot apart is not simply what she painted, but how she painted it. Her brushwork is characterized by its delicate fluidity, a lightness of touch that conveys an impression of spontaneity and immediacy. She masterfully employed broken color – applying small strokes of pure pigment side-by-side to create a shimmering effect of light and atmosphere. Unlike some of her Impressionist colleagues who focused on grand landscapes or bustling cityscapes, Morisot often chose intimate interior scenes and portraits, exploring the nuances of human relationships and the quiet beauty of everyday life. Her palette is typically soft and harmonious, favoring pastel shades and subtle gradations of color. This isn’t to say her work lacks strength; rather, it possesses a refined elegance and emotional depth that resonates with viewers even today. Critics like Gustave Geffroy recognized this unique quality, hailing her as one of “les trois grandes dames” of Impressionism – alongside Marie Bracquemond and Mary Cassatt – acknowledging her significant contribution to the movement.

    Legacy and Lasting Influence

    Berthe Morisot’s life was tragically cut short in 1895, but her artistic legacy endures. Married to Eugène Manet, brother of Édouard, she navigated a world that often underestimated female artists, yet she persevered with unwavering determination. She exhibited under her full maiden name – a subtle act of independence and self-assertion – and consistently challenged conventional expectations. Her work continues to captivate audiences with its delicate beauty, emotional honesty, and innovative technique. Morisot’s influence extends beyond the realm of Impressionism; she paved the way for future generations of female artists, demonstrating that women could achieve artistic excellence and contribute meaningfully to the evolution of art history. Today, her paintings are held in prestigious collections around the world, serving as a testament to her enduring talent and her pivotal role in shaping modern art. Woman in the Green Dress, The Cradle, and Summer’s Day remain iconic examples of her mastery, inviting viewers into a world of light, intimacy, and quiet contemplation.

    Museum

    Nationalmuseum

    On show in Stockholm, Sweden

    A Chronicle of Swedish Identity: Unveiling the Nationalmuseum

    Nestled on the serene Blasieholmen peninsula in Stockholm’s heart, the Nationalmuseum is more than simply a repository for art; it's a vibrant chronicle of Sweden’s cultural evolution. Founded in 1792 as Kungliga Museet – the Royal Museum – its story is inextricably linked to the nation’s journey, from medieval artistry and aristocratic patronage to a bold embrace of contemporary expression. Stepping through its doors is akin to embarking on an immersive exploration of Swedish identity, interwoven with the rich tapestry of European artistic traditions. The building itself, a magnificent testament to Northern Italian Renaissance architecture conceived by German architect Friedrich August Stüler, stands as a powerful symbol – a deliberate restraint in façade design concealing a breathtakingly spacious interior, while the dramatic flight of stairs ascending towards the uppermost galleries serves not just as functional access but as an ascent into the realm of artistic contemplation. This architectural choice, reflecting the museum’s origins rooted in royal collections, speaks to a fascinating transformation: from a space initially conceived for showcasing regal treasures acquired through patronage to a democratized public institution dedicated to all Swedes.

    The Nationalmuseum's collection is an astonishing panorama of artistic voices spanning centuries. The painting galleries offer a sweeping journey, beginning with the delicate religious scenes of the Renaissance – masterpieces that evoke a profound sense of faith and devotion – and culminating in the masterful chiaroscuro of Rembrandt and the emotionally charged canvases of Goya. These works, juxtaposed against Swedish national treasures, highlight the museum’s commitment to showcasing both international luminaries and pivotal works defining Swedish artistic heritage. Beyond these European giants, the museum champions Swedish artists, presenting their contributions across various periods and movements – from the dramatic landscapes of Albert Rydberg to the poignant portraits of Carl Larsson. The sculpture section is equally impressive, featuring classical pieces alongside more experimental forms reflecting evolving artistic sensibilities; a testament to Sweden’s engagement with both established traditions and innovative approaches. But perhaps it's in its applied arts and design collection that Nationalmuseum truly distinguishes itself. Visitors can trace the evolution of Swedish aesthetic ideals through meticulously crafted furniture – embodying functional beauty and understated elegance – ceramics imbued with symbolic meaning, and textiles woven with intricate patterns, revealing how artistry seamlessly blended with practicality throughout history.

    The Architectural Heartbeat

    The building’s significance extends far beyond its artistic holdings. Inaugurated in 1866, the Nationalmuseum's structure draws inspiration from Northern Italian Renaissance architecture, a deliberate choice reflecting the museum’s origins and its connection to the Swedish monarchy. The façade, deliberately restrained, conceals within it a breathtakingly spacious interior – a testament to the ambition of its architects and builders. The dramatic flight of stairs ascending towards the uppermost galleries is not merely a means of access; it's a powerful symbol, representing an ascent into the realm of artistic contemplation. This architectural choice speaks volumes about the museum’s evolution from a royal repository to a public institution dedicated to all Swedes. The building’s construction was a monumental undertaking, involving skilled artisans and craftsmen from across Europe, and its completion marked a pivotal moment in Stockholm's cultural landscape.

    A Living Museum: Exhibitions and Engagement

    The Nationalmuseum isn’t merely a static display of masterpieces; it’s a dynamic cultural hub actively engaging with contemporary issues through thoughtfully curated exhibitions. Recent highlights include “Hanna Hirsch Pauli – The Art of Being Free,” an exploration of artistic expression as a tool for confronting societal challenges—demonstrating the museum's dedication to fostering dialogue and inspiring reflection. The museum consistently seeks to broaden access to art education, offering engaging programs for visitors of all ages, from family workshops to lectures and tours. Furthermore, ongoing initiatives aim to connect diverse communities with cultural heritage, ensuring that the Nationalmuseum remains a vital force in shaping Sweden’s cultural landscape. The commitment to accessibility is evident in its free admission on Thursdays and for visitors under 20 – a gesture reflecting a deep-seated belief in the importance of art for all.

    A Legacy Preserved, A Future Embraced

    Ultimately, the Nationalmuseum distinguishes itself through its unwavering commitment to preserving Sweden’s artistic heritage while simultaneously embracing innovation. The architectural grandeur serves as a tangible connection to history, inviting visitors to contemplate the enduring power of art and design – a space for contemplation, discovery, and inspiration. The museum's ongoing renovation project, completed in 2018, has not only modernized its facilities but also reaffirmed its commitment to serving future generations of art lovers. With its rich collection, stunning architecture, and dynamic programming, the Nationalmuseum stands as a beacon of Swedish culture – a place where history comes alive and artistic expression continues to inspire.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for On the Sofa

    originaluniqueart.com/en/art/download/berthe-morisot-on-the-sofa-8EWCTW-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Morisot, Berthe. On the Sofa. 1871, Nationalmuseum. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/berthe-morisot-on-the-sofa-8EWCTW-en/
    APA
    Morisot, Berthe (1871). On the Sofa [Painting]. Nationalmuseum. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/berthe-morisot-on-the-sofa-8EWCTW-en/
    Chicago
    Berthe Morisot. On the Sofa. 1871. Nationalmuseum. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/berthe-morisot-on-the-sofa-8EWCTW-en/
    Harvard
    Morisot, Berthe (1871) On the Sofa. Nationalmuseum. Available at: https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/berthe-morisot-on-the-sofa-8EWCTW-en/

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 27, 2026

    On the Sofa — Berthe Morisot Part 4 · Artist and museum

    Look closely

    On the Sofa — Berthe Morisot

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: woman, sofa, reading. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at A Corner of the Rose Garden (1885), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Berthe Morisot was about 30 when this was made. What in it looks like the work of an artist at that stage?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 27, 2026

    On the Sofa — Berthe Morisot Part 5 · Look closely

    Art quiz

    On the Sofa — Berthe Morisot

    How well do you know this artwork?

    Tick one answer for each of the 5 questions below. Each has exactly one correct answer.

    1. 1. What artistic movement is Berthe Morisot primarily associated with?

      • A Cubism
      • B Impressionism
      • C Surrealism

    2. 2. The painting 'On the Sofa' depicts a woman engaged in what activity?

      • A Painting a landscape
      • B Reading a book
      • C Playing musical instrument

    3. 3. What is a notable characteristic of Berthe Morisot's style as seen in 'On the Sofa'?

      • A Bold, dark outlines
      • B Loose brushstrokes and emphasis on light
      • C Highly detailed realism

    4. 4. In what year was 'On the Sofa' created?

      • A 1865
      • B 1871
      • C 1889

    5. 5. Which of the following best describes the overall mood or atmosphere conveyed by 'On the Sofa'?

      • A Energetic and chaotic
      • B Quiet, intimate, and peaceful
      • C Dramatic and unsettling

    My score: ____ out of 5

    Answer key — for the teacher

    This starts a fresh printed page, so it can simply be left out of the copies.

    1A · 2A · 3A · 4A · 5A

    Check any answer against the catalogue record for this painting

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 27, 2026

    On the Sofa — Berthe Morisot Part 6 · Art quiz

    Questions & Answers

    How popular is "On the Sofa" within Impressionist Movement?

    "On the Sofa" by Berthe Morisot is classified as recognized and belongs to the Impressionist Movement movement.

    What does "On the Sofa" by Berthe Morisot depict?

    The themes present in "On the Sofa" by Berthe Morisot include woman, sofa, reading, interior, leisure, domesticity, morisot. Together they summarize the artwork's subject matter.

    Where can I buy a hand-painted reproduction of "On the Sofa" by Berthe Morisot?

    You can order a hand-painted reproduction of "On the Sofa" by Berthe Morisot directly on its Hand-Painted Reproduction page: a hand-painted oil reproduction on linen canvas, made to order.