Wrestlers in Brittany

Like many French artists of the fin de siècle, Lucien Simon was fascinated by the authentic life of Brittany. Around 1898, he elaborated the theme of wrestlers in at least five paintings, of which this version is probably a preliminary study. In each case, the fight is not in the foreground and the figures in the duel make a powerful…

Like many French artists of the fin de siècle, Lucien Simon was fascinated by the authentic life of Brittany. Around 1898, he elaborated the theme of wrestlers in at least five paintings, of which this version is probably a preliminary study. In each case, the fight is not in the foreground and the figures in the duel make a powerful downward movement to the left. In the background, Simon incorporated architectural elements from various villages such as Kerouzy, Kérity and Penmarc'h. In this way, he suggested the set-up of wrestling matches in which men from different villages competed against each other. Together with Charles Cottet, Simon founded the Bande Noire in 1895. Most painters of the group were characterised by social themes and a preference for rather sombre colours. The Belgian painter and sculptor Constantin Meunier was also a member.