4 paintings that evoke music

For Music Day, Museum TV invites you to discover 4 paintings that evoke music, of course!

Le Chahut (The Can-can) - Georges Seurat

Let's begin our analysis with a masterpiece of pointillism! Seurat's "Le Chahut" immerses us into a vibrant and lively ambiance. It appears that we have entered a cabaret, where dancers gracefully perform a cancan-like dance. What about the musical accompaniment? The artist skillfully portrays the double bass and violins held by the musicians, showcasing both precision and simplicity. The artwork almost invites us to participate in the joyful celebration.

Bal à Bougival (Dance at Bougival) - Pierre-Auguste Renoir

Renoir's painting captures a dance in the heart of a bal musette. It is worth noting that the banks of the Marne were highly popular for 'guinching' at the turn of the century. Take notice of the brushstrokes in this artwork, as they effectively portray movement and effervescence.

La leçon de danse (The Ballet Class) - Edgar Degas

Here is a painting that delicately evokes music. Edgar Degas's "Dance Lesson" portrays the final moments of the lesson, as the young dancers twist and stretch. One can easily envision the pianist playing the last chords while the instructor requests the young prodigies to halt. In fact, Jules Perrot, the renowned dance master of that era, is seen providing instructions to one of the dancers. Positioned at the center of the canvas, leaning on his cane, the teacher exudes an aura of authority.

La leçon de musique (The Music Lesson) - Henri Matisse

Let us conclude our selection with a magnificent piece by Henri Matisse: "The Music Lesson". Set in a serene atmosphere, the artist portrays a young boy engaged in learning to play the piano. The scene exudes a soothing ambiance, and one can almost perceive the hesitant musical notes emanating from the instrument as the young pianist practices.

You now know 4 paintings that evoke music!

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