Edouard Manet, "In the Conservatory"
Our artist for this week is Edouard Manet (1832-1883). He is often listed as a French Impressionist, but he doesn't fit nicely inside that label, and I have read that he personally rejected the idea. The true Impressionist, such as Claude Monet, painted outdoors and focused on instantly capturing the quality of light striking objects. This was never Manet's intent. And, Manet used black, Monet never did. But they did have a lot in common, particularly painting similar subjects such as the couple here: the beautiful, well dressed people of Paris out enjoying a sunny day.
If I was able to go back and meet just one of the French painters of the 19th century, I think it would be Manet. Not only is this painting beautifully constructed, but aside from that, he has created such drama! It is possible to read about who these people were and the location of this setting. But, why know? Manet presents us with a scene heavy with intrigue. Let us insert our own meaning.
The biggest clue is that each is wearing a wedding ring, so it is safe to assume they are married. He seems to be speaking to her, with his hand close to hers, but not touching. She is the mystery. She is not looking at him, but gazing out somewhere beyond us. Her look is pleasant enough, but not smiling. It's as if she is in a daydream, or maybe just concentrating on his words.
Notice that her right hand is gloved, but not her left. What is she thinking? Is this a pleasant moment for the couple, or are they having difficulties? If we desire, we can assume the "wild nature" of the background can offer another clue, but maybe not, too. It is our choice to make. Manet creates a scene and leaves us to enjoy.
"In the Conservatory" has an interesting history. It was purchased from the artist and sometime later it was given to the people of Berlin during a time when museums began acquiring art from outside Germany. Towards the end of World War II, it was put into hiding along with other art, to protect them from the bombing raids over Berlin. When American's discovered this Art, it was assumed this painting had been confiscated by the Nazi's. But not so. It took a while for the record to be straightened out, but our painting always belonged to the German people. Today it is on display, back in its former gallery for all to enjoy.
"In the Conservatory" is an oil on canvas. It was painted in 1879 and is part of the permanent collection of the Alte National Galerie, Berlin, Germany.
Make Art a part of your life, it's a beautiful thing to do.
My first thought is - "What is the relationship"? Although they are married, the back of the bench provides sort of a barrier between them. But the closeness of the hands suggests a comfort level. (I hope his cigar is not lit!!) I read that she was the owner of a boutique; her posture and appearance suggest confidence. Maybe they are both here to enjoy the serenity of the conservatory. She appears indifferent, but I'm sure she hears his every word!! I follow the light areas, from flowers, to hands, to parasol. The dark background makes the setting quite dramatic. The details of her entire figure are stunning. Her ungloved had is just a tease!! What a great painting.
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