The Cradle

Undeniably Berthe Morisot's most famous painting, The Cradle was painted in Paris in 1872. It shows the artist's sister, Edma, watching over her sleeping daughter, Blanche. It is the first image of motherhood—later one of her favourite subjects—to appear in Morisot's work.

Morisot showed The Cradle at the Impressionist exhibition of 1874; she was the first woman to exhibit with the group. The painting was scarcely noticed, although important critics commented on its grace and elegance. After unsuccessful attempts to sell it, Morisot withdrew it from display. The Cradle stayed in the model's family until it was purchased by the Louvre in 1930.