Le bœuf gras devant le Grand Châtelet, un jour de Carnaval (1801 - 1900)

Artist: Auguste-Sébastien Bénard (active 1801 - 1900)Discover a vibrant moment preserved in time with Auguste-Sébastien Bénard’s historical painting "Le bœuf gras devant le Grand Châtelet, un jour de Carnaval" ("The Fat Ox in front of the Grand Châtelet on a Carnival Day"). Set against the architectural grandeur of the Grand Châtelet in Paris, this artwork captures the lively essence of a traditional French carnival.This detailed painting is alive with the festive spirit that characterizes the Carnival of Paris, focusing on the popular procession of the fat ox, which symbolizes bounty and community celebration. The artist vividly renders a scene bustling with revelers dressed in colorful costumes and masks, adding to the festive atmosphere. Among the crowd, knights and citizens, merchants, and children all converge, showcasing a slice of Parisian life at the time.The architectural elements of the Grand Châtelet are depicted with precision and skill, highlighting its imposing gates and conical towers. The textural contrasts between the stone masonry of the Grand Châtelet and the soft textures of the carnival costumes bring a dynamic vibrancy to the painting."Le bœuf gras devant le Grand Châtelet, un jour de Carnaval" is not only a celebration of a festive event but also a rich historical document. Through Bénard’s detailed brushwork and keen eye for cultural depiction, viewers are offered a glimpse into the past festivities that once brought the streets of Paris to life.