Description

The painting in the image is titled The Muses (French: Les Muses), painted by the French artist Maurice Denis in 1893. The original oil on canvas painting is housed in the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, France.
About the Artwork:
Style and Subject: The work is a significant piece from the Post-Impressionist and Symbolist movements, with Denis being associated with the Les Nabis group. It updates the classical theme of the nine Muses, who were the goddesses of the arts and sciences, by depicting women in contemporary clothing in a “sacred wood” setting.

Composition and Setting: The scene is set on the terrace of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, where Denis lived. The century-old chestnut trees provide a strong decorative rhythm to the composition with their vertical lines contrasting with the curves of the branches and clothing.
Personal Connection: The figures in the foreground include the artist’s wife, Marthe, whom he had recently married. She appears twice among the group of women.
Meaning: The painting uses unreal, autumnal colors and a flattened perspective to create an atmosphere of mystery and communication between the figures and nature’s supernatural powers.