Berthe Morisot and the 18th Century: A Dive into Artistic Elegance at the Marmottan Monet Museum”

From October 18, 2023, to March 3, 2024, the Marmottan Monet Museum offers a unique artistic experience with the exhibition “Berthe Morisot and the 18th century. Watteau, Boucher, Fragonard, Perronneau.” Created in partnership with the Dulwich Picture Gallery in London, this exhibition highlights the connections between the Impressionist artist Berthe Morisot (1841-1895) and 18th-century French artists.

While Berthe Morisot is often regarded as a painter of modern life, her art was frequently compared to that of 18th-century artists during her lifetime. Renoir even referred to her as the “last elegant and ‘feminine’ artist we have had since Fragonard.” This exhibition explores the origins of this inspiration by juxtaposing 18th-century works with Morisot’s iconic Impressionist pieces, revealing the manifestations and forms of her immersion in and understanding of the Enlightenment era’s genius.

Meeting Berthe Morisot

Berthe Morisot au bouquet de violette” – Edouard Manet – 1872

To understand Berthe Morisot’s art, it is essential to place her within the artistic context of her time. Her friendship with Édouard Manet played a pivotal role in her artistic development. Édouard Manet’s painting “Berthe Morisot with a Bouquet of Violets” illustrates their artistic and personal connection.

A Unique Artistic Dialogue

L’Enseigne de Gersaint” by Antoine Watteau – 1720-1721

Antoine Watteau is one of the major artists of the 18th century, known for his grace and elegance. The exhibition explores how Berthe Morisot was influenced by Watteau’s style, showcasing iconic works such as “The Shop Sign of Gersaint.”

Impressionism’s Elegance

Eugène Manet et sa fille dans le jardin à Bougival” by Berthe Morisot – 1881

Berthe Morisot a su apporter une touche d’élégance à l’Impressionnisme avec des œuvres telles que “Eugène Manet et sa fille dans le jardin à Bougival.” Cette peinture incarne le raffinement et la grâce de l’époque, montrant comment Morisot a capturé la vie moderne avec finesse.

Practical Information

The exhibition “Berthe Morisot and the 18th century” at the Marmottan Monet Museum offers a unique perspective on Berthe Morisot’s art and her relationship with 18th-century masters. It is a rare opportunity to delve into the artistic elegance of two different yet interconnected eras. By exploring this exhibition, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of how Berthe Morisot inherited and adapted the genius of the 18th century to create her distinctive art. This exhibition pays tribute to an artist who transcended temporal boundaries to leave a lasting imprint on art history. Don’t miss this chance to discover this unique artistic dialogue at the Marmottan Monet Museum.

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