Artwork

Les Champs-Elysées

Les Champs-Elysées, by Stanislas Lépine, oil, 1873
Les Champs-Elysées, by Stanislas Lépine, oil, 1873

Les Champs-Elysées is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Stanislas Lépine. It dates from 1873 and is held in the collection of the Clark Art Institute.

About this work

Overview

Les Champs-Elysées is an oil painting by French artist Stanislas Lépine, dated to around 1873. It is part of the collection at the Clark Art Institute.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays a serene scene of a woman walking alone down a tree-lined path on the Champs-Elysées, set against a backdrop of everyday life in the distance. The tranquil atmosphere suggests a moment of peaceful coexistence between solitude and urban activity.

Technique & Style

Lépine employs a subtle palette, blending soft yellows and blues in the sky, and muted greens and browns for the trees. The work showcases his skill in capturing the play of light and shadow, particularly on the foliage, which enhances the depth and serenity of the composition.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1873, the painting's history prior to its acquisition by the Clark Art Institute is not detailed here. It is known to be part of the institute's permanent collection.

Context

Painted during the late 19th century, Les Champs-Elysées reflects the era's interest in capturing modern urban life and the beauty of everyday scenes, characteristic of certain strands of French painting at the time.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Stanislas Lépine

Artist

Stanislas Lépine

Stanislas Victor Edouard Lépine (October 3, 1835 – September 28, 1892) was a French painter who specialized in landscapes, especially views of the Seine.

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