Acrobats at the Cirque Fernando (Francisca and Angelina Wartenberg)

Pierre-Auguste Renoir

Created:
Movement:
1879
Impressionism
key Notes:
Circus Performance, Impressionist Portraiture
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Dimensions:
131.2 × 99.2 cm (51 1/2 × 39 1/16 in.); Framed: 160.1 × 129 × 10.2 cm (63 × 50 3/4 × 4 in.)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Acrobats at the Cirque Fernando (Francisca and Angelina Wartenberg)" is a painting by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, created in 1876. The work depicts two acrobats, Francisca and Angelina Wartenberg, who were prominent performers at the Cirque Fernando, a popular circus in Paris during the late 19th century. Renoir captures the dynamic movement and grace of the acrobats, emphasizing their physicality and the vibrant atmosphere of the circus. The painting is characterized by Renoir's signature brushwork and use of color, which convey a sense of immediacy and liveliness. This work reflects the artist's interest in contemporary life and entertainment, as well as his exploration of the human form. The painting is part of the collection at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where it has been housed since its acquisition in 1933.

Description of the work:

"Acrobats at the Cirque Fernando (Francisca and Angelina Wartenberg)" by Pierre-Auguste Renoir depicts two female acrobats, Francisca and Angelina Wartenberg, in a dynamic pose that captures the energy of the circus environment. The composition is characterized by a vibrant palette, with rich reds, blues, and yellows that enhance the lively atmosphere of the performance. The figures are rendered with a soft, fluid brushwork typical of Renoir's style, emphasizing the grace and athleticism of the acrobats. The background features a blurred audience, suggesting movement and excitement, while the foreground focuses on the performers, drawing the viewer's attention to their expressions and postures. The use of light and shadow creates depth, highlighting the contours of the figures and the texture of their costumes. Overall, the painting exemplifies Renoir's ability to convey the vivacity of contemporary entertainment through his distinctive Impressionist technique.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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Acrobats at the Cirque Fernando (Francisca and Angelina Wartenberg)