[1] This painting was commissioned in 1882 by the merchant Paul Durand-Ruel who wanted works on the theme of the ball.

[1][2] The painting, influenced by the artist's trip in Italy in 1881 where he found inspiration from Raphael, marked an evolution of the painter who tried then to break away from Impressionism.

However, a table in the background on the right, and a hat on the ground, and a pair of faces below the level of the dance floor, can be seen.

The woman who holds a fan in her right hand, displays a smiling face and looks towards the viewer.

The scene is bathed in a bright and cheerful atmosphere, and the women's clothes use warm colors (yellow gloves, red hat).