The Allegory of the Sorbonne

Hi everyone! My name is Isabella, and I'm so excited to explore this amazing painting with you today! It's called The Allegory of the Sorbonne, and it's super cool! It's by an artist named Pierre Puvis de Chavannes, and he painted it a long, long time ago – in 1889! nn (Pause for questions and allow children to share their thoughts.) nn

Now, look at how big this painting is! It's really, really long, like a giant storybook. It's not full of bright, crazy colors, though. It's mostly gray, but that makes the people and the shapes stand out even more. What do you think about that? Do you like paintings with lots of colors, or do you like paintings that are more calm and quiet like this one? nn (Pause for questions and discussion.) nn

This painting tells a story about learning and knowledge. See the people on the left? They're in old, broken-down buildings. That might show us how learning started a long, long time ago. Then, look at the people on the right! They're in a nice, green forest. That might show us how people learn today. What do you think the artist is trying to tell us about learning? nn (Pause for questions and discussion. Encourage children to share their interpretations.) nn

Look closely at the people. They all look different, right? Some are wearing fancy clothes, and some are wearing simpler clothes. But they all seem to be thinking and talking together. The artist used soft lines and gentle light to make the painting feel peaceful and calm. It's like they're having a quiet, thoughtful conversation. What do you think they might be talking about? nn (Pause for questions and discussion.) nn

This painting isn't just pretty to look at; it makes us think about learning and how it changes over time. It shows us that learning is always important, whether it's in old ruins or a beautiful forest. It's a bit like a puzzle, and we can all try to figure out what the artist wanted to say. What do you think is the most important message in this painting? nn (Pause for questions and discussion. Summarize key points and thank the children for their participation.) nn

Wasn't that fun? I hope you enjoyed learning about The Allegory of the Sorbonne! Remember, looking at art is like telling a story with pictures. Keep exploring and asking questions – that's how we learn and grow! Now, let's go see what other amazing art we can discover!