Blessing of a Yacht on the Belon River 1899

"Blessing of a Yacht on the Belon River" (1899) by Maurice Denis, a leading figure in the Nabis movement, exemplifies the group's symbolist and decorative style. The painting depicts a scene on the Belon River in Brittany, France, where a crowd of people gather to watch the blessing of a yacht. The figures are rendered in simplified forms and bold colors, reflecting Denis's emphasis on the expressive power of line and color. The painting's flattened perspective and decorative elements contribute to its dreamlike and evocative quality. The scene evokes a sense of serenity and joy, reflecting the group's appreciation of nature and their fascination with the symbolism of religious rituals.