Théodore Rousseau is one of the iconic figures of French landscape art. His passion for nature and his desire to capture its timeless beauty are reflected in his paintings, which are imbued with poetry and emotion. Through his works, he transports us to lush landscapes, mysterious forests, and infinite skies, revealing his deep connection with the natural world. The tree is almost always the central element of the painting, so majestic that it has a human presence. The painter indeed defines himself as a "man of the forest."
Théodore Rousseau - La voix de la forêt
The Petit Palais is showcasing Théodore Rousseau (1812-1867), a master of the Barbizon School, whose work profoundly influenced the artistic landscape of the 19th century.
After exploring the French countryside from 1830 to 1835 (a period known as "the school of nature"), he was denied entry to the Salon of 1836, which led him to settle on the edge of the Fontainebleau forest, seeking a kind of "untouched or at least preserved nature."
The exhibition offers a rare opportunity to delve into Rousseau's artistic evolution, from his promising yet classical beginnings to his creative peak. Among the works presented, some of the most emblematic ones invite us to explore the innovative techniques and unique artistic sensitivity of this painter. Among these, paintings such as "The Sunrise in the Forest" or "The Clearing with the Deer" perfectly illustrate his mastery of light and composition, captivating the viewer with their striking beauty.
