Artwork

Monet that reads

Monet that reads, by Auguste Renoir, oil, 1873
Monet that reads, by Auguste Renoir, oil, 1873

Monet that reads is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Auguste Renoir. It dates from 1873 and is held in the collection of the Musée Marmottan Monet.

About this work

Overview

Pierre-Auguste Renoir's 1873 oil painting, 'Monet that reads', is a portrait of Claude Monet. The work is characterized by loose brushstrokes and a focus on capturing light, set against a dark background. It is part of the collection at the Musée Marmottan Monet.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Claude Monet in a contemplative pose, distinguished by his dark beard and hat, with his right hand resting on a chair arm. He is shown puffing on a long pipe, conveying a sense of relaxed introspection.

Technique & Style

Renoir employed loose, quick brushstrokes, particularly evident in the facial features and the swirling smoke from the pipe. The painting also features subtle impasto techniques, adding texture to the work. A small, discreet signature 'Renoir' is located in the corner.

History & Provenance

Created in 1873, the painting is now held in the collection of the Musée Marmottan Monet, though specific details of its provenance before acquisition are not provided here.

Context

This portrait reflects the close relationship between Renoir and Monet, two leading figures of the Impressionist movement, capturing a personal moment of one artist by another.

Legacy

While specific legacy details of 'Monet that reads' are not highlighted, as a portrait of Monet by Renoir, it contributes to the broader appreciation of Impressionist camaraderie and artistic exchange.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Auguste Renoir

Artist

Auguste Renoir

Pierre-Auguste Renoir was born on 25 February 1841 in Limoges, the son of a tailor and a seamstress.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Musée Marmottan Monet open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.