Saint in a Barque
1903-1906
About this artwork
The painting depicts a crowded boat scene on a body of water, featuring a central, haloed figure wearing a bishop's mitre and red robes, seemingly collapsing or being supported by other figures. Several individuals are rowing, indicating movement across the water.
Did you know?
Maurice Denis was a key figure in the Symbolist and Nabis movements, known for his decorative style and religious subjects. He famously stated, "Remember that a painting - before being a war horse, a naked woman, or some anecdote - is essentially a flat surface covered with colors assembled in a certain order." This principle is evident here, where symbolic meaning and formal arrangement take precedence over pure realism.
Know the artwork. Knowing its title and artist turns a beautiful image into a story worth sharing — with a museum label:
Saint in a Barque
Maurice Denis, 1903-1906
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