The artwork titled “Au temps d’harmonie (L’âge d’or n’est pas dans le passé, il est dans l’avenir)” was created by Paul Signac between 1893 and 1895 in France. It is an oil painting that belongs to the Pointillism and Neo-Impressionism movements. Measuring 310 x 410 cm, this piece falls into the genre of allegorical and figurative painting.
The artwork depicts an idyllic, harmonious scene set in a pastoral landscape. The composition is alive with individuals engaged in various leisurely and laborious activities, exemplifying a utopian vision of communal life. On the left side, under the shade of a large, leafy tree, people are seen in relaxed postures, interacting with each other in calm camaraderie; one reaches for the fruit while another reads a book. Beyond them, by the tranquil sea, figures are seen painting and sailing. Towards the middle and right of the canvas, individuals indulge in gardening, child-rearing, and dancing. The entire scene is rendered with the meticulous dot technique characteristic of Pointillism, creating a vibrant and cohesive tapestry of color and light. The presence of a rooster in the foreground adds a rustic touch to the scene, symbolizing the rural and peaceful livelihood the artwork intends to idealize.
