Sur L’escalier 1879

"Sur L’escalier" (1879), by Ernest Meissonier, depicts a scene of a man in 17th-century attire sneaking a peek at a woman leaning over a railing on the landing of a grand staircase. Meissonier, known for his meticulous detail and historically accurate depictions, captures the intimacy of the moment through the man’s posture and the sly smile on his face. The painting's masterful use of light and shadow adds to the sense of drama and intrigue. The opulent interior, with its rich tapestry and intricate woodwork, further accentuates the social status and elegance of the setting.