Les Lavandières

A beautiful scene on canvas depicting a laundress at work in a washhouse at the beginning of the 20th century. The Impressionist technique perfectly captures the laborious nature of this profession: Movement is recreated throughout the piece with broad, energetic brushstrokes and the vibrant colors contribute to the dynamic effect. Only the central figure in light blue is rendered in a more static manner, embodying the relentless toil of the laundresses. 

Professional laundresses of the past, known as "lavandières," were women who washed clothes primarily using ashes and hot water, either by hand or with a beater in a river or washhouse. They often had a bad reputation, viewed as matronly figures or even witches. This image was reinforced by the superstitions and rituals they practiced during laundry work. During large night washes, these hardworking women would sometimes indulge in cider or wine, which further contributed to their mysterious aura.

Despite their sultry reputation, they continued to inspire the Impressionist masters of the time, such as Gustave Caillebotte, Berthe Morisot, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Camille Pissarro.

• Overall Size: 17.7" x 23.2" / 45cm x 59.5cm.
• Size without frame: 12.9" x 18.1" / 33.5cm x 46.5cm.
• Country of origin: France.
• Signature: Anonymous.
• Creation date: Early 20th Century. 
• Condition: The canvas is in very good condition and features a recent stretcher. The frame shows various impacts and marks, with some missing moldings in the corners
• Materials: Oil on canvas with a wooden frame.
• Shipping: Complimentary shipping to the US and Europe. A surcharge will be applied for deliveries to Australia, New Zealand, and Asia.