The artwork, “Beneath the Lilac at Maurecourt,” was painted by Berthe Morisot in 1874. Morisot was an influential figure within the Impressionist movement, and her oil on canvas creation exemplifies the characteristics of the genre. Measuring 61 x 50 cm, this genre painting captures an everyday scene with a heightened sense of atmosphere, which is typical of the Impressionist style. As of the last known update, the artwork resides within a private collection.
Focusing on the artwork itself, it portrays an intimate outdoor scene. Three figures are depicted in a garden setting: an adult, presumably a woman, and two children. The woman is dressed in a black outfit with a prominent white collar and a bonnet, engaged in sewing, with her attention directed toward the material in her lap. One child, seated compliantly beside the woman, gazes outward with an expression that suggests contemplation or distraction. The second child stands slightly apart, with a gesture or stance indicating either play or interaction with the surroundings.
The garden is lush, with the lilac that lends its name to the title inferred to bloom above them, although the painting depicts more foliage than florals. Various shades of green and dappled light suggest the brightness of the day and the vibrancy and tranquility of the setting. The presence of a straw basket enhances the pastoral feel of the scene. The brushwork appears loose and fluid, typical of Impressionist works, aiming to capture the essence of the moment rather than the minute details. Light and shadow are handled elegantly, showing Morisot’s sensitivity to the atmospheric effects of her environment. Overall, the artwork reflects the Impressionist interest in everyday life, light, and the fleeting moments of beauty found within it.
