I like how Degas devolved over time. It’s like the evolution of a comfy armchair; the fibers break down, the lines become less distinct, everything flows together and becomes gentle and harmonious and simple.
Tag: 19th century
Sunday
While this work seems very simple, it is very complex. Look at the folds of fabric and how real they appear. Look at the detailing of the books, the curtains, the wall panels… no detail is too small to be worthy of notice and attention. It is as life-like as a photograph in many ways.
Saturday
Can we talk about how in at least in the 1840s, at least most people sort of knew what lions looked like, as opposed to the 1600s and such when we have gross misrepresentations of Barbary lions and hippos and rhinos and things in Baroque art because they’re based on descriptions of things from classical literature and “I saw this fantastic creature on a trading expedition!” letters and things? Because this is an actual thing in art history and it needs to be discussed.
Friday
This particular work isn’t so much about the theme as it is the use of color. Everything is precisely colored and juxtaposed and contrasted in such a way to draw the eye from one place to another in sequence. It’s very effective, and the bright hues make it impossible to ignore the demand.
Monday
For all that this is meant to be a tranquil landscape scene, it is anything but: it is full of drama and movement and force of nature. Everything about it speaks of impending climactic change.
Wednesday
One thing about Cezanne: you can’t mistake his work for anyone else’s. It’s too distinct, even within the repetitious Impressionist movement.
Tuesday
Another example of the ‘small but mighty’ club, this panel painting is a precursor to the impressionist dynastic linage of Monet, Manet, and Degas. You can see hints of what would become Monet’s outdoor inspiration in the skyline’s coloring and the execution of the sand, and the juxtaposition of colors speaks of Manet and a bit of van Gogh, if you had to point to those who took their inspiration from these earlier works.
Tuesday
You know what these look like? Faberge enamelware designs from the 1890s. I guess we know where he lifted some of his inspiration from, eh?
Saturday
*points with feeling* If this is what the ventilation system cover looked like, you guys, imagine the rest of it. Don’t tell me you don’t feel me on this.
Friday
Oh my god, y’all. Look at these balusters. LOOK AT THEM. Aren’t they about the most pea pickin’ elegant things you’ve ever blinking seen? That must have been a hell of a staircase. I can’t even.