Les Crinolines 1867

Eugène Boudin created “Les Crinolines” in 1866 with watercolor and pencil. This seemingly simple beach scene offers a glimpse into the social rituals of 19th-century France, where leisure and fashion intertwined. Boudin’s choice to depict fashionable women, with their crinoline dresses and parasols, highlights the burgeoning culture of leisure among the French bourgeoisie. The beach itself became a stage for social display. The very act of observing and representing these scenes reflects the changing dynamics of art and society. Artists found value in the everyday lives of ordinary people. To fully understand Boudin's work, we can look at fashion trends, social customs, and the rise of seaside tourism. By exploring these contextual layers, the beach scene becomes more than just a snapshot. It becomes a mirror reflecting the values and aspirations of a society in transition.