Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1841–1919)
Around 1876–78
Oil paint on canvas
61.5 x 50.5 cm
Acquired by Oskar Reinhart in 1923
These two young women appear to be sharing a secret, likely centred on the ring worn by the figure at left. Her companion, her back turned, partially blocks our view and prevents further intrusion. Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s skilful handling of the effect of dappled sunlight reinforces the impression that we are glimpsing a fleeting private moment.
This canvas and the three others by Renoir on view in this exhibition are part of a group of twelve owned by Oskar Reinhart – the greatest number of paintings by a single artist in his collection.