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virtues,
truth,
and the glorious infinite,
autumn 1999 |
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select
works of
william adolphe
bouguereau
curated by
adelia c.
rasines |
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From the exhibition catalogue:
The
Newington Cropsey Foundation’s “Virtues, Truth, and the Glorious Infinite”
exhibit is an effort in the ongoing work of the Foundation to bring classical art back to
its rightful place. The artwork of William Adolphe Bouguereau is a shining example of how
great art can be. The poignancy and sadness of Pieta
(image right - Private Collection) the radiant Mother in Madonna of the
Roses, and the grace and beauty of Jeune Bergere Debout and Elder Sister are unparalleled.
The detail and discipline used by Bouguereau is reminiscent of the Landscape painters of
the 19th century. Although the subject matter differs, the spirit and
evocations of a higher good are evident in both types of paintings. As the Americans’
paintings have an ethereal quality to them, so has the work of Bouguereau. The Virgin Mary
and Jesus are beautifully painted and the holiness and goodness of these figures is
obvious. What is striking is how even the shepherdesses and common people in
Bouguereau’s paintings are elevated to a sacred and reverent status. This depiction
of man as created in God’s image is inspirational. The innocence and goodness
portrayed by these figures conveys the idea that man is inherently good and can aspire to
the greatest of accomplishments – to be in the grace of God.
Anthony Speiser
Newington Cropsey Foundation |
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Virgin of the Lilies, WA Bouguereau
Private Collection |
Lady with Butterfly, WA Bouguereau
Private Collection |
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