〈Bal du moulin de la Galette〉,〈Le Déjeuner des canotiers〉
Pierre-Auguste Renoir
Now, let us leave the serene beauty of Monet’s garden and return to the city, where we join Renoir at the lively Bal du Moulin de la Galette.
In this iconic painting, most of the attendees are dressed in black and formal evening attire. Renoir, uniquely among the Impressionists, had a particular affinity for and mastery of black, which he referred to as his “multicolored black”. This approach reflected his philosophy on art and life: “Why shouldn't art be pretty? There are enough unpleasant things in the world”. This perspective set Renoir apart, forming a stark contrast to the conservative and rigid values of the era’s traditional salons, which revered solemn, classical depictions of history and mythology. Renoir’s lighthearted and joyous works not only defied these conventions but also resonated deeply with viewers, spreading an infectious sense of happiness.
Beautiful women, adorable children, fresh flowers, fine wine, lively dances—these were Renoir’s favorite subjects, all imbued with a sense of happiness. Known as the “Painter of Joy”, Renoir created works that radiated warmth and celebration. In Bal du Moulin de la Galette, the atmosphere is lively and cheerful. Some figures are engaged in conversation, while others whirl happily across the dance floor. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting playful, dappled light that enhances the scene's dynamism. Renoir’s mastery of Impressionist techniques is evident in the interplay of light and shadow and the use of complementary and contrasting colors, creating a composition that is simultaneously vibrant and harmonious.
After the joy of the dance hall, we follow Renoir to the water, where he captures another festive scene in “Luncheon of the Boating Party”.
This 1881 painting reflects Renoir’s time exploring new settings, including trips to Algeria, Italy, and Provence. During this era, Europe was experiencing a post-war revival, with life regaining its vibrancy. While the working class celebrated with dances, the affluent enjoyed leisure activities like boating. Renoir frequented riverside restaurants, where boaters and their companions dined and socialized in a relaxed, congenial atmosphere. Unlike the bustling and structured composition of “Bal du Moulin de la Galette”, this painting portrays figures scattered freely across the canvas, conveying an informal and spontaneous energy. The lighting here is less dramatic, leaning toward a more narrative style with clearer outlines and distinct facial expressions. The figures are not enveloped by light or background, as seen in many Impressionist works, but are instead well-defined, with individual gestures and emotions vividly depicted. In contrast, the river scene beyond the canopy is rendered with quintessential Impressionist techniques, soft, blurred forms and vibrant colors that convey the shimmering light and tranquil mood of the outdoors.
In this period, Renoir’s work reflects a deeper contemplation of his artistic approach. He revisited the ideals of classical painting, striving to merge its pursuit of timeless beauty with the modernity of Impressionist innovation. This fusion of tradition and contemporary technique marked a significant evolution in Renoir’s style.
