Claude Monet is one of the founders of Impressionism, known throughout the world, especially for his superb Water Lilies which continue to amaze us. However, his brother Léon Monet, who played an important role in the artist's career, is much less known to the public. The current exhibition at the Musée du Luxembourg is therefore entirely devoted to this little-known brother, who had a fundamental role in Claude's artistic life.
Léon was a chemist specialized in colors, an industrialist from Rouen and an art collector. At the end of the 19th century, when Claude returned to Le Havre and painted "Impression, Sunrise", Léon created the Industrial Society of Rouen and decided to actively support his brother and his fellow Impressionist artists, which led to the formation of a remarkable collection of modern art.
The exhibition features over a hundred works, including paintings and drawings by Monet, as well as those of other great artists such as Morisot, Sisley, Pissarro and Renoir. Also on display are color books, fabric samples, Japanese prints, archival documents and numerous family photographs.
The energetic portrait Claude Monet painted of his older brother in 1874, testifying to the deep affection that united the two brothers, is presented for the first time. This exhibition allows us to rediscover Léon Monet and his role in the biography of his brother Claude, showing their common interest in color and their strong attachment to the family.
It will also be an opportunity to take a walk in the magnificent Luxembourg garden!
Until 16/07/2023. Open every day from 10:30 am to 7 pm, nightly on Monday until 10 pm.
Photo ©Ana Petrovic - Unsplash