Edgar Degas (i)
Musée d'Orsay (Paris, France) (i)
A Masterpiece of Impressionism
The Absinthe Drinker, painted in 1876 by French artist
Edgar Degas, is a remarkable piece of art that showcases the essence of Impressionism. This painting, also known as Dans un Café or A sketch of a French Café, depicts two figures sitting side-by-side in a café, drinking absinthe. The man, wearing a hat, looks to the right off the edge of the canvas while the woman stares vacantly downward.
A Tale of Loneliness and Decadence
The painting portrays a sense of loneliness and decadence that was prevalent in Paris during the rapid growth stage. The couple appears lethargic, lost in their own thoughts, and disconnected from each other. The glass of absinthe before them symbolizes the increasing social isolation and the nervous fear of decadent ways reaching the shores of Britain.
Critical Reception
At its first showing in 1876,
The Absinthe Drinker was panned by critics who called it ugly and disgusting. However, over time, the painting has gained recognition for its unique style and depiction of a significant social issue. Today, it is considered a masterpiece of Impressionism and a must-see at Musée d'Orsay in Paris.
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Visit Musée d'Orsay
Musée d'Orsay is located in Paris, France, and houses an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. To learn more about the museum's hours, location, and ticket prices, visit their official website at
Musée d'Orsay.
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References
• L'Absinthe - Wikipedia
• The Absinthe Drinker, 1876 - Edgar Degas - WikiArt.org
• Absinthe, Edgar Degas: Analysis, Interpretation
• Green Fairy: The symbol of liberté
• Musée d'Orsay discussion of the painting