Rolleboise, La Baignade 

Maximilien Luce painted "Rolleboise, La Baignade," capturing a scene of leisure that reflects the social currents of his time. Luce, deeply influenced by his involvement in anarchist circles, often depicted scenes of everyday life, subtly infused with a sense of social commentary. Here, we see figures relaxing by the water, an image that seems idyllic on the surface. Yet, considering Luce’s political leanings, the painting offers a glimpse into the lives of the working class, enjoying a moment of respite. There's a sense of community and shared space, almost radical when set against the backdrop of late 19th, early 20th-century class divisions. What strikes me is the painting's quiet dignity. Luce doesn't romanticize or exoticize his subjects; instead, he presents them in a way that acknowledges their humanity. It's a gentle reminder of the importance of leisure and rest, seen through the lens of a painter deeply committed to social justice.