Sagittaire 3 (1896)

"Sagittaire 3" by Maurice Pillard Verneuil, created in 1896, is a striking example of Art Nouveau design. This painting splendidly captures the essence of nature with a stylized and decorative approach, which was emblematic of the Art Nouveau movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.The artwork is cleverly divided into panels, each flourishing with abundant floral and botanical motifs. The top panel features an intricate array of stylized flowers, intertwined with elegant, swirling lines that create a harmonious and rhythmic pattern across a dark, contrasting background. The lively organic forms and the choice of warm earthy tones mixed with vibrant hues highlight Verneuil’s mastery of color and form.The central panel presents a more subdued color palette, with delicate white and pale blue flowers set against a serene blue and grey backdrop. This panel showcases Verneuil's skill in achieving balance and visual depth through the use of color and detailed linework.The bottom panel complements the piece with a busier, active composition filled with clusters of pale yellow flora. The background, in shades of brown and grey, enhances the vibrancy of the flowers, making them appear as if they are glowing amidst dusky leaves.Maurice Pillard Verneuil’s "Sagittaire 3" is not merely decorative but is imbued with symbolism and a deep appreciation for the natural world, reflecting the artist's intent to blur the boundaries between fine arts and applied arts.