Madame Cézanne (Hortense Fiquet, 1850–1922) in a Red Dress

Paul Cézanne

Created:
Movement:
1890
Post-Impressionism
key Notes:
Post-Impressionist Portraiture, Muted Color Palette
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Dimensions:
45 7/8 × 35 1/4 in. (116.5 × 89.5 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Easy
New game
story of the work:

"Madame Cézanne (Hortense Fiquet, 1850–1922) in a Red Dress" is a portrait painted by Paul Cézanne between 1888 and 1890. The subject of the painting is Hortense Fiquet, Cézanne's long-time companion and later wife. This work exemplifies Cézanne's distinctive approach to color and form, characterized by bold brushstrokes and a focus on the interplay of light and shadow. The red dress worn by Fiquet serves as a focal point, contrasting with the more subdued background. Cézanne's portraits often reflect his interest in the psychological depth of his subjects, and this painting is no exception. The work is part of a series of portraits that Cézanne created of Fiquet, highlighting their intimate relationship. The exact circumstances of the painting's creation remain largely unknown. Today, the painting is housed in a prominent museum collection, contributing to the understanding of Cézanne's evolution as an artist.

Description of the work:

"Madame Cézanne (Hortense Fiquet, 1850–1922) in a Red Dress" is a portrait by Paul Cézanne, created between 1888 and 1890 using oil on canvas. The painting features Hortense Fiquet, the artist's wife, seated against a muted background that emphasizes her figure. She is depicted wearing a striking red dress, which contrasts with the softer tones surrounding her. Cézanne employs a distinctive brushstroke technique, creating a textured surface that adds depth to the composition. The use of color is notable, with the red of the dress serving as a focal point against the more subdued palette of greens and browns. The figure is rendered with a sense of solidity, reflecting Cézanne's interest in form and structure. The composition is balanced, with the subject positioned centrally, drawing the viewer's attention. The overall effect is one of both intimacy and contemplation, characteristic of Cézanne's approach to portraiture.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Madame Cézanne (Hortense Fiquet, 1850–1922) in a Red Dress