A central figure of Impressionism, Pierre-Auguste Renoir left behind a vibrant, luminous, and deeply human body of work. Here is a Q&A article to dive into his universe.
How to recognize a true Renoir?
A true Renoir painting is distinguished by its warm colors, its soft shapes, and its vibrant scenes. He loved to paint smiling faces, female bodies bathed in light, popular festivals, children, and flowers. His brushstrokes are often round, light, and the outlines sometimes blurred, favoring sensation over precision.
What is Renoir's most sought-after painting?
Le Déjeuner des canotiers (1880-81) is undoubtedly one of Renoir's most famous and sought-after art prints. It perfectly embodies the Impressionist spirit with its natural light, vibrant colors, and joyful depiction of a moment of life on the banks of the Seine. This painting is now preserved at the Phillips Collection in Washington.
What is Renoir’s last painting?
One of Renoir’s last paintings is The Bathers (1918-1919). Despite the pain caused by his illness, he continued to paint until the end of his life, with brushes tied to his paralyzed fingers. This work, full of softness and sensuality, shows how faithful Renoir remained to his love of the female body and beauty.
Who was Renoir’s favorite model?
One of his most frequent and beloved models was Aline Charigot, a young seamstress whom he later married. She appears notably in Luncheon of the Boating Party, playing with a dog in the foreground. Their relationship deeply marked his work, and their son Jean Renoir became one of the greatest French filmmakers.
Who is Renoir’s copyist?
Renoir did not have an official copyist, but several artists of his time were influenced by his style and sometimes reproduced his works for study. Today, he is one of the most copied painters in art academies and on the art print market.
What was Renoir’s famous quote?
One of Renoir’s most famous phrases is:
“Pain passes, beauty remains.”
He said it while suffering from deforming arthritis. This quote sums up his life philosophy and his deep attachment to painting, despite the pain.
Who was Renoir's muse?
Besides Aline Charigot, Renoir had many muses. He often painted his close ones, but also professional models like Gabrielle Renard, a young governess who posed for him in many paintings. Gabrielle remained close to the Renoir family throughout her life.
Did Renoir have a disability?
Yes. Renoir suffered from severe rheumatoid arthritis from the age of 50. He ended his life in a wheelchair, with paralyzed and twisted fingers. Yet, he never stopped painting: his assistants tied brushes to his hand so he could continue to create.
What is Renoir's legacy today?
Renoir influenced many artists with his luminous approach to painting. He is considered one of the masters of depicting the joy of living. His works are exhibited in the world’s greatest museums, and his paintings continue to fascinate collectors as well as art lovers. Acquiring an art print of a Renoir is like inviting a piece of this timeless beauty into your home.