Prière Marmitale (1894)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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"Prière Marmitale" is a captivating artwork created by the Swiss-born French artist Théophile Alexandre Steinlen in 1894. This evocative piece portrays a solitary figure in a moment of reflection or prayer, next to what appears to be a streetlight and a drinking fountain. The figure, possibly a woman given the silhouette of the attire, stands out against a richly textured, almost shadowy background, emphasizing a sense of isolation and singular focus.Steinlen's mastery in using contrast to draw attention to the subject is evident here, as the lighter areas surrounding the figure highlight her form against the darker background. This technique creates a haunting atmosphere that invites viewers to ponder the story behind this moment captured in time. The details, such as the ruffles on the figure's clothing and the stark, simple lines of the urban elements, are typical of Steinlen's work, which often includes social and humanitarian themes.With its intriguing title, "Prière Marmitale," which could be loosely translated as "Kitchen Prayer," the painting suggests themes of daily struggle or the seeking of solace in everyday routines and settings.
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Théophile Alexandre Steinlen, was a Swiss-born French Art Nouveau painter and printmaker.
Born in Lausanne, Steinlen studied at the University of Lausanne before taking a job as a designer trainee at a textile mill in Mulhouse in eastern France. In his early twenties he was still developing his skills as a painter when he and his wife Emilie were encouraged by the painter François Bocion to move to the artistic community in the Montmartre Quarter of Paris. Once there, Steinlen was befriended by the painter Adolphe Willette who introduced him to the artistic crowd at Le Chat Noir that led to his commissions to do poster art for the cabaret owner/entertainer, Aristide Bruant and other commercial enterprises.