Victorian Contradictions: Tissot, Women and Time Arrives at the AGO

Step into the paradoxes of Victorian life this holiday season with Tissot, Women and Time, a new exhibition at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO). Opening on December 20, 2024, this captivating showcase explores the French artist James Tissot’s (1836–1902) intricate portrayals of women navigating the rapid pace of modernity alongside the slower rhythms of daily life.

Tissot’s art, celebrated for its attention to detail and rich narratives, often depicted the complexities of Victorian womanhood. Whether lounging in recovery, symbolizing seasons, or bustling through London and Paris, these images reveal unspoken social codes embedded in how women spent their time. The exhibition, curated by Dr. Mary Hunter of McGill University in collaboration with the AGO team, features three paintings and 34 works on paper, including the AGO’s iconic The Shop Girl (c. 1883–1885) and selections from the artist’s Women of Paris series.

One standout is Waiting (late 19th century), a haunting watercolor of a pale girl, hands clasped, evoking illness and quiet resilience. This work contrasts with Tissot’s depictions of women in recovery, like The Convalescent (1872), which Victorian audiences viewed as both sensual and socially appropriate.

Beyond the slower paces of life, Tissot’s works also capture the whirlwind of modernity. With themes of commerce, fashion, and urban energy, these pieces illustrate how time—both as a physical measure and a societal construct—defined social class and morality during the era.

Admission & Details
📅 AGO Members: Early access begins December 20, 2024, at 5 p.m.
🎟️ Public Access: Opens December 21, 2024, free for Ontarians under 25, Indigenous Peoples, AGO Members, and Annual Passholders.

Tickets can be booked in person or online. For details, visit AGO.ca.

On display through June 29, 2025, Tissot, Women and Time offers a thoughtful look at how Victorian society shaped and judged women’s roles, making it a must-see for history buffs, art lovers, and anyone curious about the contradictions of the past.