The Brioche

Édouard Manet

Created:
Movement:
1870
Realism
key Notes:
Still life Rich textures
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Dimensions:
25 5/8 x 31 7/8 in. (65.1 x 81 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"The Brioche" is a still life painting created by Édouard Manet in 1870. The work features a loaf of brioche, a type of French bread, placed on a table alongside a knife and a plate. Manet's approach to the subject reflects his interest in everyday life and the use of light and shadow. The painting is characterized by its loose brushwork and a focus on the texture of the bread. It is considered part of Manet's exploration of modern life and the ordinary objects within it. The current location of "The Brioche" is unknown, and it is not part of any major public collection. The painting exemplifies Manet's transition from traditional still life to a more modern interpretation.

Description of the work:

"The Brioche," painted by Édouard Manet in 1870, features a still life composition that centers on a loaf of brioche, a type of French bread. The painting employs a muted color palette dominated by warm browns and soft yellows, which enhances the texture of the bread. Manet's brushwork is loose and expressive, creating a sense of immediacy and spontaneity. The brioche is placed on a simple white cloth, which contrasts with the darker background, drawing attention to the subject. The play of light and shadow adds depth and dimension to the loaf, highlighting its round shape and crusty surface. The overall composition is balanced yet informal, reflecting Manet's innovative approach to still life painting. The work exemplifies Manet's ability to elevate everyday objects to the status of fine art through careful observation and painterly technique.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Brioche