The Fishermen (Fantastic Scene)

Paul Cézanne

Created:
Movement:
1880
Post-Impressionism
key Notes:
Post-Impressionist landscape, Dreamlike atmosphere
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Dimensions:
21 3/4 x 32 1/4 in. (55.2 x 81.9 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
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story of the work:

"The Fishermen (Fantastic Scene)" is a painting by Paul Cézanne, created around 1875. The work is characterized by its vibrant colors and dynamic composition, reflecting Cézanne's interest in the interplay of light and form. It depicts fishermen engaged in their daily activities, set against a backdrop of a fantastical landscape. This painting is notable for its departure from traditional realism, showcasing Cézanne's evolving style that would later influence modern art. The exact circumstances of its creation and the specific location depicted remain unknown. The painting is part of the collection at the Musée d'Orsay in Paris. Cézanne's work during this period is often associated with the Impressionist movement, although he sought to develop a more structured approach to composition. "The Fishermen" exemplifies his exploration of color and brushwork, which would become hallmarks of his later masterpieces.

Description of the work:

"The Fishermen (Fantastic Scene)" by Paul Cézanne, created around 1875, is an oil on canvas painting that depicts a group of fishermen engaged in their daily activities. The composition features a dynamic arrangement of figures, characterized by robust forms and a sense of movement. Cézanne employs a palette dominated by earthy tones, interspersed with vibrant blues and greens, which evoke the natural environment. The brushwork is distinct, with visible strokes that contribute to the texture and depth of the scene. The background is rendered with a sense of atmospheric perspective, suggesting a landscape that recedes into the distance. The figures are stylized, reflecting Cézanne's interest in the interplay between form and color. Overall, the painting exemplifies the artist's exploration of structure and the relationship between human figures and their surroundings.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Fishermen (Fantastic Scene)