Lady with Fans (La Dame aux éventails)
Painting on canvas • Édouard Manet (1832–1883)
Style & Movement
Impressionism / Realism (with Japonisme influences)
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas, utilizing rapid, gestural brushwork and wet-on-wet technique characteristic of Impressionism.
Creation Period
1873-1874
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 113.5 x 166.5 cm; Large landscape format rectangular canvas.
Subject Description
The portrait depicts Nina de Callias, a famous Parisian salonnière, reclining on a divan. Behind her is a wall decorated with Japanese fans and fabrics, reflecting the 19th-century European fascination with Japonisme. The composition captures her in a moment of relaxed, intellectual poise.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Very Good. The paint layer appears stable with some surface dirt and aged varnish present; typical age-related craquelure is visible under close inspection.
Estimated Market Value
$50,000,000 - $80,000,000 (Based on historical significance and rarity of major Manet works).
Auction Estimate
$40,000,000 - $60,000,000
Provenance History
Gifted by the artist to the sitter; later acquired by the Musée d'Orsay collection (Luxembourg Museum collection historically).
Art Historical Significance
A masterpiece of Manet's mature style, bridging traditional portraiture with modern Impressionistic color and flattened space. It is a key example of the cultural trend of Japonisme in French art.
Notable Features
The use of Japanese fans as a decorative backdrop and the high-contrast palette of the sitter’s black dress against the vibrant blue pillows are iconic features.
Condition Issues
Minor yellowing of the varnish layer and fine surface craquelure; potential slight darkening of pigments over time.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional surface cleaning and varnish thinning recommended to restore original brightness. Maintain in a climate-controlled environment with UV-filtered lighting.