The artwork “Young Guitarist Standing” is an Impressionist oil on canvas genre painting by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, dating from approximately 1897. It represents Renoir’s contribution to the Impressionist movement, capturing a genre scene with his distinctive, light brushwork. Currently, this artwork resides in a private collection and is not on public display.
The painting depicts a youthful guitarist standing, absorbed in the act of playing his instrument. He is dressed in a vibrant, ornate costume with a matador-like appearance, featuring a heavily embroidered jacket and a bright red sash around his waist. His breeches are pristine white, contrasting with the bold colors of his upper attire, and he is wearing brown shoes with red accents that match his sash. His head is adorned with a black hat, and a red cloth is partially draped over the side of his hat, which cascades down his back, adding a flourish of color that complements his outfit.
The guitarist’s gaze is directed downward at his instrument, suggesting a moment of focus and serenity. His facial expression is soft and contemplative, implying a sense of introspection or perhaps an emotional connection to the music he is playing. The background is rendered with loose, broad strokes of green and warm tones, indicative of the spontaneous style associated with Impressionism. It suggests an informal setting, possibly an outdoor or pub scene, which is further intimated by the cobblestone ground beneath the guitarist’s feet. Renoir’s choice of colors and the manner in which he captures the light reflect his desire to portray the vibrancy and fleeting moments of everyday life, true to the ethos of the Impressionist movement.
