The Bathers (1875

Paul Cézanne

Created:
Movement:
1875
Post-Impressionism
key Notes:
Post-Impressionist composition, Naturalistic forms
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Dimensions:
15 x 18 1/8 in. (38.1 x 46 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Easy
New game
story of the work:

"The Bathers" by Paul Cézanne, created between 1874 and 1875, is a significant work in the artist's exploration of form and color. The painting depicts a group of nude figures in a natural setting, reflecting Cézanne's interest in the human body and its relationship to the landscape. It is characterized by its use of bold brushstrokes and a distinctive color palette, which contribute to the overall composition and depth. This work is often seen as a precursor to modern art, influencing later movements such as Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. The exact circumstances of its creation and the identities of the figures remain unknown. "The Bathers" is part of a series of works by Cézanne on the theme of bathers, which he revisited throughout his career. The painting is currently housed in the collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Description of the work:

"The Bathers" by Paul Cézanne, created between 1874 and 1875, is an oil on canvas painting that depicts a group of nude figures in a natural setting. The composition is characterized by a dynamic arrangement of the figures, which are rendered with a focus on geometric forms and a sense of volume. Cézanne employs a palette of muted earth tones, interspersed with touches of brighter colors, to create a harmonious yet complex interplay of light and shadow. The background features a landscape that includes trees and a body of water, contributing to the overall sense of depth. The brushwork is distinct, with visible strokes that convey texture and movement, emphasizing the artist's interest in the physicality of the forms. The figures are depicted in various poses, suggesting a moment of leisure and interaction, while their simplified shapes reflect Cézanne's exploration of abstraction. The painting exemplifies the artist's innovative approach to composition and color, marking a significant development in the transition from Impressionism to modern art.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Bathers (1875