Henri Lebasque – Saint-Tropez, Madame Lebasque and Marthe near Fountain, 1907 Sotheby’s

The composition presents a domestic scene suffused with light and color. Here we observe two figures positioned near what appears to be a fountain or water feature, set against a backdrop of lush vegetation and architectural elements suggesting a garden setting. The taller figure, standing and partially nude, dominates the left side of the canvas. She raises her arm, seemingly shielding her eyes or adjusting her hair, creating a dynamic pose that draws immediate attention. Her body is rendered with a focus on form rather than precise detail, emphasizing the play of light across skin tones.
To the right, seated and draped in a simple garment, sits another figure. Her gaze appears directed downwards, conveying an air of quiet contemplation or perhaps modesty. The contrast between her covered state and the exposed body of the standing woman introduces a subtle tension within the scene.
The artist’s handling of color is particularly noteworthy. A vibrant palette of greens, pinks, blues, and yellows creates a sense of warmth and luminosity. Brushstrokes are loose and expressive, contributing to an overall impression of spontaneity and immediacy. The foliage in the background is rendered with energetic strokes that suggest movement and vitality. Architectural details – a window or archway – are suggested rather than precisely defined, further emphasizing the atmospheric quality of the work.
Beyond a straightforward depiction of figures in a garden setting, the painting seems to explore themes of femininity, privacy, and observation. The juxtaposition of the nude figure with the clothed one might allude to different facets of womanhood or varying degrees of exposure – both literal and metaphorical. The presence of the fountain could symbolize purification or renewal, adding another layer of symbolic meaning.
The composition’s lack of a clear narrative invites multiple interpretations. It is not a scene of action but rather a moment captured in time, allowing for a contemplative engagement with the subjects and their surroundings. The overall effect is one of tranquil beauty tinged with an underlying sense of intimacy and quiet complexity.