Shop art print and framed art Two Sisters (On the Terrace) by Auguste Renoir

Auguste Renoir's Two Sisters on the Terrace: The history and influence of a work

Discover the painting "The Two Sisters on the Terrace" by Auguste Renoir, a painting that marked the course and its unique style. This work created in 1881 is a true illustration of Auguste Renoir's talent as well as his contribution to the Impressionist movement.

The history of the painting "The Two Sisters on the Terrace"

Done in 1881, this oil painting on canvas measures 100 x 80 centimetres and is currently held at the Chicago Museum of Fine Arts. It depicts a young woman and a small fillet sitting side by side on a terrace with a verdant landscape in the background.According to some sources, it would appear that the two figures depicted are not actually sisters, but rather a child with her nurse.

A captivating, bucolic scene

In this painting, Renoir illustrates his talent for capturing the essence of fleeting elements in an intimate, poetic atmosphere.Their confident, open pose invites the viewer to share in their joy and carefree spirit. The richness of the colours and textures, and the fine detail, make this scene captivating and vivid.

An Impressionist masterpiece

"The Two Sisters on the Terrace" is often considered a major work of the Impressionist movement. This painting reflects Renoir's interest in light and colour, as well as his desire to express his impressions rather than faithfully reproduce forms.The dynamic brushstrokes and subtle interplay of tones create a truly visual and emotional fresco.

The description of the work

The characters: elegance and complicity

The two characters are portrayed with a grace and elegance that characterise Renoir's style. Their frank gaze and mischievous smile express a complicity and mutual benevolence.The clothes are carefully worked, particularly the hats adorned with ribbons and flowers, which add to the charm and femininity of the scene.Renaud uses bright, fresh colours to bring the protagonists' clothes to life, particularly in the hairstyles and bouquets.

The landscape: a natural, harmonious setting

The background features a verdant, lakeside landscape of diverse, colourful plants that contrasts with the azure blue sky. The canvas seems to vibrate under the action of the light wind that stirs the leaves and makes the flowers dance. The work of light and shadow reinforces the realism of this bucolic scene.

The role of this work in Renoir's artistic career

With "The Two Sisters on the Terrace", Auguste Renoir affirmed his attachment to the Impressionist movement and his taste for lively genre scenes. This work is emblematic of his most flamboyant period, marked by brilliant colours and a light-hearted theme.

A crucial stage in the evolution of Renoir's style

This painting marks an important development in the artist's career, particularly in his treatment of colour and composition. Renoir here develops a more assertive and personal style, which stands out from the other Impressionist painters.The use of rapid, expressive brushstrokes shows the influence of Monet and Pissarro, while the interest in textures and the search for harmony reveal a dialogue with Cézanne and Degas.

A symbol of Renoir's success and fame

"The Two Sisters on the Terrace" was exhibited several times from the moment of its creation, testifying to the early recognition of Renoir's talent by his peers and the public. The work has also been reproduced and commented on in numerous books, helping to build the artist's international reputation.

This emblematic painting of Impressionist painting invites us to share a privileged moment with these two carefree young women, while appreciating Renoir's pictorial talents. Its importance in the development of the artist's style and its international renown make this work a true icon of French art.

This artwork is a painting from the classical period. It belongs to the impressionism style.

« Two Sisters (On the Terrace) » is kept at The Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, USA.

Find the full description of Two Sisters (On the Terrace) by Auguste Renoir on Wikipedia.