Auguste Renoir
Pierre Auguste Renoir was a leader in the Impressionist movement of the 19th century. Early in his career, Renoir adhered to the Impressionist standard, but by the mid 1880’s he became focused with the more disciplined formal techniques of painting. Renoir’s popularity was highly influenced by his love of all things beautiful. His subjects included pretty children, flowers, gorgeous landscapes, and above all lovely women. This is exemplified by his quote, `Why shouldn't art be pretty? There are enough unpleasant things in the world.' Renoir’s ‘The Box' depicts a fine lady and gentleman in theater box as they await the start of an opera. The lady is magnificently dressed in a white dress with broad black stripes and pink flower accesories. Her red hair is gorgeously coiled atop her head while vibrant jewels encircle her graceful neck. The gentleman is reclining in a dapper tuxedo as he watches the ongoings son the stage through binoculars.
