Saint-Étienne-du-Mont, Paris

We are delighted to present "Saint-Étienne-du-Mont, Paris," a captivating artwork by Jean François Raffaëlli, a master of French Impressionism and realism. This painting marvelously encapsulates the bustling ambiance of Paris in the late 19th century, set against the backdrop of the historic Saint-Étienne-du-Mont church, located near the Panthéon in the Latin Quarter.Raffaëlli's skill in capturing the everyday life is evident in the vivid details of this lively street scene. The foreground of the painting is animated with people from various walks of life — from elegantly dressed women conversing leisurely to men and children going about their day. The artist also includes a charming touch with a small dog, playfully running across the open space, adding a sense of liveliness and immediacy to the scene.The church itself is depicted with architectural accuracy, its Gothic and Renaissance elements beautifully rendered to highlight its ornate facade and the towering spire. The soft, diffuse light of the sky suggests early afternoon, with gentle clouds adding depth and texture to the vast expanse above.Jean François Raffaëlli's use of color and brushwork creates a dynamic yet harmonious composition, inviting viewers to step into a moment of history, experiencing the vibrancy of Paris through his eyes.