Stage 

Adolphe Monticelli created this oil on panel painting, entitled "Stage," sometime in the mid-19th century. Monticelli was a French painter who developed a highly personal and expressive style, characterized by thick impasto and vibrant colors. But what can we say about his influences? Here, the figures’ theatrical poses and costumes evoke a sense of spectacle and performance, while the loose brushwork and hazy atmosphere create an otherworldly quality. The French court under Louis XIV, who established the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture, was a primary source for Monticelli. Looking back, the court became a symbol of refinement and a space for celebration, which were values embraced by the bourgeoisie in France. To fully understand Monticelli, it's critical to remember the cultural and institutional context in which he operated. By studying the records of art academies, exhibition catalogs, and other primary sources, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the social and historical forces that shaped his art.