In this work painted around 1909, Maurice Denis captures the very essence of seaside holidaying during the Belle Époque.
The harmonious composition is organized around bathers on Trestignel beach, in a peaceful, sun-drenched atmosphere. The painter deploys his characteristic palette of pastel tones—delicate blues, soft pinks, and warm yellows—creating a serene ambiance. The female figures, some modestly unclothed in a classical manner, others in light dresses, form a scene that evokes both Cézanne’s bathers and ancient friezes. The background, with the Pointe du Château extending into the deep blue sea, anchors the scene in the actual topography of Perros-Guirec while contributing to the rhythmic construction of the painting. Denis brilliantly succeeds in merging the naturalism of the beach scene with his Symbolist vision of art.
Further Context
- Bathers at Perros-Guirec, by Maurice Denis, between 1909 and 1912
- 98 x 122 cm
- Paris Museums, Petit Palais, Museum of Fine Arts of the City of Paris
- https://www.parismuseescollections.paris.fr/fr/petit-palais/oeuvres/baigneuses-a-perros-guirec
Maurice Denis (1870-1943), a major figure in the Nabis movement and influential theorist of modern art, is known for his famous formula: “Remember that a painting, before being a battle horse, a nude woman, or some anecdote, is essentially a flat surface covered with colors assembled in a certain order.” In this work from his mature period, he demonstrates his mastery of synthesis between classical tradition and modernity. His attachment to Brittany, where he regularly stayed, nourished his inspiration and allowed him to develop a personal vision of painting, combining spirituality and observation of nature.
