Studio in the rue de Furstenberg 1865

Frederic Bazille's “Studio in the rue de Furstenberg” gives us a glimpse into the artist’s workspace in 19th century Paris, and perhaps, a reflection on the artist's own place within the artistic institutions of the time. Notice how the paintings leaning against the wall display a variety of genres: landscapes, portraits, and even a nude. This arrangement suggests not only Bazille's own diverse interests, but also the range of styles and subjects that were deemed appropriate for academic artists during this period. In France, the Academy controlled artistic taste, dictating what was considered worthy of display in the prestigious Salon exhibitions. A well-established hierarchy of genres dominated the field, with history painting at the top, followed by portraiture, genre scenes, landscapes, and still life. Bazille, like many of his contemporaries, was navigating this complex system, seeking recognition while also experimenting with new approaches to painting. By examining exhibition records, letters from the period, and critical reviews, we can begin to understand the social dynamics that shaped Bazille’s artistic choices.