The Defense of Paris 1870 - 1871

Editor: This is Ernest Meissonier’s "The Defense of Paris," painted between 1870 and 1871 using oil paints. The first impression is definitely chaotic. There's a powerful central figure amidst a sea of figures and colors. The composition seems to overflow with symbolism, yet feels dense, almost impenetrable at first glance. How do you interpret this work from a formalist perspective? Curator: Intriguing observation. From a formalist perspective, it’s the interplay of form, line, and color that constructs meaning here, separate from the historical context. Notice how Meissonier uses a muted, almost monochromatic palette. What does the limited range of hues evoke for you? Editor: It feels oppressive, almost suffocating, heightening the feeling of despair suggested by the figures on the ground. The eye is forced upwards. Curator: Precisely. The tight clustering of forms creates a visual tension. Our gaze is directed upward, towards the figure with the flag. Consider how the implied lines converge upon her. How does this compositional choice affect the painting’s narrative, strictly in terms of its visual structure? Editor: The upward convergence seems to imbue her with symbolic power, regardless of who she actually represents. It creates a strong sense of direction amidst the chaos, which seems critical. Curator: A compelling analysis. Now, let's shift our focus to the texture of the paint itself. Observe the impasto, the thick application of paint in areas such as the smoke and the flag. What does this tactile quality add to the overall impact of the work? Editor: The heavy texture gives a sense of physicality, making the scene feel more real, tangible. It emphasizes the gravity of the subject matter, drawing the viewer closer to the portrayed violence and grief. I wouldn’t have initially focused on brushwork without this approach, but it seems really significant. Curator: Precisely, the formalism allows us to understand how the structure creates and adds to meaning of a piece. A beneficial perspective when approaching this historical work.