Notre Dame c. 1907

Henry Lyman Saÿen painted 'Notre Dame' using oil on canvas. Notre Dame Cathedral is more than a building, it is a cultural symbol and a testament to French history. Saÿen painted this at a time when modern art movements were challenging traditional artistic conventions. His bold colors and flattened perspective reflect the influence of movements like Fauvism, which prioritized emotional expression over realistic representation. The cathedral, typically depicted with reverence, is transformed into a vibrant, almost abstracted form. By exploring period newspapers, exhibition reviews, and the artist's personal correspondence, we can gain a deeper understanding of the artistic debates and social forces that shaped Saÿen's vision. This painting offers a glimpse into a moment of cultural transformation.