In the collection of Barnes Foundation, Philadelphia — check current display status with the museum.
FROM THE BARNES FOUNDATION’S CATALOG
The model here is Henriette Henriot, an actress who posed frequently for Renoir during his impressionist years. Renoir captures her in a state of undress, perhaps just having cooled off in the water; the damp undergarment clings to her thigh. This painting would have scandalized audiences during Renoir's time. The colors, first of all, with purplish blotches falling across shoulders and legs, were jarring for audiences used to looking at smooth idealized bodies. Moreover, Renoir has depicted a real woman rather than some mythological nymph—a breach of decorum.
Be the first to share your thoughts.
Sign in to join the discussion.
Arthur Davies — Flora
Auguste Renoir — Young Girl Bathing
Jules Pascin — Seated Girl in Chemise (Jeune fille assise en
Auguste Renoir — Nude
Jean-Jacques Henner — Standing Woman
Hugues Merle — Falling Leaves, Allegory of Autumn
Jules Pascin — Seated Figure (Jeune fille assise)
Auguste Renoir — Woman in a Park
Camille Pissarro — The Bather
Auguste Renoir — Woman Standing by a Tree
Auguste Renoir — Young Woman Braiding Her Hair
Auguste Renoir — Young Girl Reading