Marronnier 2 1896

Maurice Pillard Verneuil created this print, 'Marronnier 2', using pochoir, a refined stencil-based technique that flourished at the turn of the century. The dominant motif, the chestnut tree, or 'marronnier' in French, sprawls across the composition in various stylized forms, each leaf and flower meticulously rendered. But what is the deeper resonance of this ubiquitous tree? Throughout history, the tree has been a symbol of life and growth, deeply rooted in the earth while reaching for the heavens. We can see echoes of this in ancient mythologies, where sacred groves were places of worship and trees were believed to house spirits. Now, consider the use of foliage in the work of Gustav Klimt, where a similar life-affirming motif appears. In Verneuil’s print, this natural imagery becomes a powerful force, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. It reflects the cyclical progression of nature, resurfacing in art and culture, and taking on new meanings as time marches on.