Bethsabée (1885-90)

We are delighted to feature the luminous painting "Bethsabée" by Paul Cézanne, crafted between 1885 and 1890. This alluring artwork captures a serene, yet evocative scene inspired by the Biblical story of Bathsheba.The painting portrays two figures set against a verdant backdrop of lush greenery. On the left, a nude woman reclines gracefully, her body marked by the loose, energetic brushstrokes that typify Cézanne's later works. She is turned away from the viewer, her attention seemingly captured by the foliage above, which dances with light and shadow. Her posture and the gentle twist of her body suggest a moment of leisurely repose, perhaps after bathing.Facing her, a clothed woman sits attentively. Her demure pose and the thoughtful tilt of her head as she looks at the ground contrast with the relaxed, open posture of the other figure. This interaction subtly echoes themes of service and contemplation.Cézanne's masterful use of color and form brings vibrancy to the scene. The dappling of light through the leaves creates a play of colors that breathes life into the canvas, while architectural elements like the hint of a classical temple column in the right background add a layer of historical depth, setting the narrative in a timeless, almost mythological context.