Created:
Movement:
c. 1870
Romanticism
key Notes:
Pastoral Innocence, Romantic Realism
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Dimensions:
39.4 × 26.7 cm (15 1/2 × 10 1/2 in.)
medium:
Oil on panel
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Three Little Girls" is a painting by Narcisse Virgile Diaz de la Peña, a prominent French artist associated with the Barbizon School, known for his landscape and genre scenes. The work exemplifies Diaz's interest in capturing the innocence and charm of childhood, often set against naturalistic backgrounds. The painting features three young girls, likely inspired by the artist's observations of rural life and the natural environment. Diaz's technique is characterized by a vibrant palette and a loose brushwork style, which contribute to the overall sense of spontaneity and warmth in the composition. The exact date of creation remains unspecified, but it is believed to have been produced during the mid to late 19th century, a period when Diaz was actively exploring themes of nature and childhood. The painting reflects the broader Romantic movement's emphasis on emotion and individual experience, as well as the growing interest in depicting everyday life. Diaz's works are often celebrated for their lyrical quality and the harmonious interplay of figures and landscape. "Three Little Girls" is representative of his ability to blend genre and landscape painting, creating a narrative that resonates with viewers through its simplicity and beauty.

Description of the work:

"Three Little Girls" by Narcisse Virgile Diaz de la Peña features a serene pastoral scene that captures the innocence of childhood. The composition centers on three young girls, depicted in a naturalistic manner, engaged in playful interaction. The figures are rendered with a soft, delicate touch, showcasing Diaz's mastery of light and shadow. The use of oil on panel allows for rich color saturation, particularly in the girls' clothing, which contrasts with the lush greenery of the surrounding landscape. The background is characterized by a harmonious blend of foliage and dappled sunlight, creating a tranquil atmosphere. The artist employs a loose brushwork technique that enhances the sense of movement and spontaneity within the scene. The overall effect is one of idyllic charm, reflecting the artist's interest in the themes of nature and childhood.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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Three Little Girls