The artwork titled “The Mediterranean,” created by Raoul Dufy in 1923, is an oil painting on canvas that embraces the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement. This marina genre piece measures 129 x 110 cm and captures the essence of the Mediterranean Sea with a distinctive primitive and non-traditional artistic style.
In the artwork, one observes the depiction of a serene maritime scene set against a vast expanse of vibrant blue waters. Various vessels — some with sails prominently unfurled — dot the tranquil sea, their forms rendered in whimsical and simplified shapes that mark the Naïve Art style. Near the lower portion of the composition, human figures are leisurely positioned along the sandy beach, distinctively engaging in activities indicative of a day by the sea. The application of color contrasts vividly against the subdued textures of the shore, adding to the painting’s charming and almost childlike quality. The overall depiction resonates with a sense of simplicity, tranquility, and the idyllic nature of Mediterranean coastal life.
