Group of Houses — The Roofs

My name is Feely T. Heart, and I will be your guide today through a captivating work from our collection: "Group of Houses — The Roofs," painted by the renowned Post-Impressionist artist, Paul Cézanne, between 1876 and 1877. nn This oil on canvas, measuring 60cm wide and 50cm high, offers a unique perspective on the Parisian cityscape. Instead of focusing on the bustling streets below, Cézanne directs our gaze upwards, towards the intricate tapestry of rooftops and buildings. The warm earth tones—ochre, burnt sienna, and reddish-browns—dominate the foreground, where low, gabled structures are rendered with visible, almost textured brushstrokes. This thick application of paint gives a remarkable sense of depth and volume to the roofs, drawing the viewer's eye into the scene. nn Cézanne's masterful technique is evident in his simplification of forms. While the foreground buildings are detailed, those in the middle and background are rendered as blocks of color, suggesting depth through atmospheric perspective. Muted greens, blues, and yellows create a hazy, almost dreamlike atmosphere, softening the sharp lines of the urban landscape. The sky itself is a subtle blend of these colors, hinting at clouds without explicitly defining them. nn "Group of Houses — The Roofs" is a testament to Cézanne's innovative approach. He moves beyond mere representation, focusing instead on the interplay of form, color, and spatial relationships. The visible brushstrokes are not merely a technical choice but an expressive element, contributing to the painting's overall texture and emotional impact. This work, part of the Hahnloser Collection housed here in the beautiful Villa Flora, exemplifies Cézanne's contribution to Post-Impressionism and his profound influence on 20th-century art. It invites us to appreciate the beauty and complexity hidden within the seemingly ordinary urban landscape.