🔴 La Dévergondée – The “Grumpette”

La Dévergondée – The “Grumpette”

The Grumpette was originally titled La Dévergondée, a French word that has no true equivalent in English.

Historically, dévergondée was a rather judgemental term used for women considered too free, too independent, too excessive, or simply too unwilling to conform. It carried the disapproval reserved for those who refused the role society expected them to play. While it often implied sensual freedom, the word reaches far beyond sexuality. It evokes defiance, irreverence, pleasure, independence, and the refusal to behave for the comfort of others. It is also, quite tellingly, the kind of “insult” more often given by older women to younger ones.

Over time, I have come to see dévergondée not as an insult, but as a compliment.

This painting embodies that spirit. Her expression invites interpretation: is it contempt, weariness, judgement, amusement, or simply the face of someone who no longer seeks anyone’s approval.

In many ways, it is also a symbolic self-portrait.

Oil on canvas 40 x 50 cm

Framed

2026