For years I adored El Greco. The way he painted eyes and hands still amazes me. And that he placed himself in virtually all, if not all, group paintings is very funny to me.
Still love his work, but a number of years ago I came across a painting titled, Rosa LaRue A Montagne by Toulouse-Lautrec. Before then, I'd only known of his dance hall girls and advertisements. Rosa is totally different. I was drawn to the painting when I first saw her while browsing online, and was so surprised to find that he is the painter. I knew I had to see this painting in person and was delightfully surprised that she was a train ride away in Lower Merion, Pa. - The Barnes Foundation. Off I went, found her in room #22, and spent at least an hour looking at her from every possible angle. I also wrote about her - "Contemplating Rosa". And of course, I have a print.
If anyone is interested in seeing this particular painting, the Foundation is moving to Center City Philadelphia. Sad in a way, because the Lower Merion location is a one of a kind; but good in a way because she will be a hands throw from me. Renoir, Matisse, Rembrandt, Rousseau, Modigliani, and more are also part of the Barnes collection.
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