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France 
A Bar at the Folies-Bergere
The painting depicts a scene in the Folies-Bergère nightclub in Paris, focusing on a barmaid standing behind the bar. In the background, a reflection in the mirror shows clubbers and part of the scene, creating a complex play of perspectives. On the bar, there are small objects and vessels, as well as oranges, which symbolize prostitution according to interpretations. The woman's figure is both a seller and the merchandise, emphasizing the social themes of the work.
Portrait of the Creator
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Artist
Edouard Manet
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Date of birth and death
23 January 1832 – 30 April 1883
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Natinality
French
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Style
Early modernist, Realism to Impressionism transition, loose brushwork, flatness, photographic lighting
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Significant works
The Luncheon on the Grass, Olympia, A Bar at the Folies-Bergère, The Fifer
Information about the work
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Year:
1882
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Execution technique:
oil on canvas
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Location:
Courtauld Gallery, London, United Kingdom
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Theme:
urban life, nightlife, society, isolation, perspective, identity
Internal Narrative and Creative Framework
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Inner Narrative
The painting is a study of the complexity of social relationships and perception, using the mirror to explore the theme of observing and being observed. It shows the contrast between the barmaid's outward pose and the world reflected in the mirror.
The key to interpreting the work
The painting should be read as a social commentary and reflection on the role of women in urban life, as well as a formal experiment with perspective and illusion.See other works by this artist
