The Braid (Suzanne Valadon) 1886

Pierre-Auguste Renoir's painting, 'The Braid', portrays Suzanne Valadon, likely rendered in oil paints. The material qualities Renoir coaxes from the paint are remarkable. Notice the lush, almost sculptural texture he achieves, particularly in the foliage and Suzanne's hair. The density and richness of the paint application speak to the labor involved in its creation. The soft, diffused light enhances the sensuality of the scene, making the act of braiding seem intimate. Renoir was associated with Impressionism, but his approach was distinct. His engagement with color and light is undeniable, yet he's also interested in rendering form, particularly the human figure. The braid itself is significant – an everyday act elevated through artistic interpretation. The painting thus challenges conventional hierarchies, blurring the boundaries between the mundane and the idealized. Ultimately, 'The Braid' reminds us that materials and making are not separate from meaning. By attending to the artistic labor, we can appreciate the full depth of Renoir's vision.