Mais c’est le coeur qui bat trop vite (1897-1899)

This captivating work by Maurice Denis, titled *Mais c’est le coeur qui bat trop vite* (1897-1899), translates to "But it is the heart that beats too fast." The painting presents a delicate and evocative portrayal of a woman, capturing an intimate moment filled with softness and introspection.In the painting, the figure of the woman is rendered in gentle, muted tones that underscore a sense of vulnerability and tenderness. She stands partially draped in a flowing white garment, her posture relaxed yet somewhat poignant as she clasps her hand over her heart. This gesture, coupled with the title, suggests a moment of emotional depth and perhaps a hint of melancholy or inner turmoil.The background contrasts the intimacy of the figure with a glimpse of the outside world. Through a window next to her, one can see a lush landscape, bathed in the serene light of either early morning or late afternoon. This inclusion of the landscape extends the emotional narrative of the piece, positioning the woman's personal experience within a broader and more serene natural context.Denis's style here exhibits his connection to the Symbolist movement, where imagery and color are used to convey deeper meanings and emotions rather than depict the reality of the external world directly. The careful balance of elements in this painting evokes a dreamlike quality that invites viewers to connect with the introspective journey of the figure depicted.