Vase of Roses 1910

Pierre-Auguste Renoir, who lived between 1841 and 1919, painted this artwork, 'Vase of Roses'. Renoir, like other Impressionist painters, often depicted the bourgeoisie during leisure, as well as domestic scenes. The loose brushstrokes, lack of clearly defined lines and edges, are all stylistic trademarks of the period. During the 19th century, there was a very specific language of flowers, with each having its own particular meaning. Roses, for example, could express love, joy, or beauty, and the specific color of the rose could change its meaning. Renoir himself said that, "The pain passes, but the beauty remains." Here, the flowers might symbolize an idealized vision of femininity. They evoke ideals of beauty and tranquility, and yet their lack of sharp definition could suggest the fleeting nature of such ideals. Though visually pleasing, this artwork also prompts questions about how societal expectations can shape one's perception and experience.