In 1870, Frederic Bazille painted “Bazille’s Studio,” a depiction of himself showing a new painting to Manet and Monet. The painting also portrays Renoir conversing with Émile Zola. Edmond Maitre, Bazille’s musician friend, is shown playing piano in the background. The painting, currently displayed in the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, provides insight into the era of art history in Paris.
Bazille, who shared a studio with Renoir from 1868 to 1870, placed the figure painting within a landscape painted en plein air. His studio was located in the Batignolles quarter, near Cafe Guerbois and Manet’s studio. Sadly, Bazille died in combat a few months after completing this painting, at the young age of 28.
Bazille’s Studio serves as a testament to his friendship with these influential artists, and their impact on the art scene in Paris. The painting highlights the importance of art communities and the exchange of ideas, which helped to create and shape an iconic era of art.
