Maximilien
Luce

Maximilien Luce was a pivotal figure in the pointillist movement, an offshoot of Impressionism characterised by the use of tiny dots of colour to compose vibrant, luminescent scenes. Born in Paris in 1858, Luce was originally apprenticed to an engraver, but his passion for painting led him to the ateliers of neo-impressionist masters like Georges Seurat. Luce's works, often bustling with the energy of industrial life and the working class, encapsulate the rhythmic beauty of neo-impressionism, harmoniously merging art with social commentary.

Beyond his artistic endeavours, Luce was deeply committed to social and political issues, particularly the plight of the working class. His oeuvre is replete with scenes depicting the everyday lives of labourers, and he often portrayed the humanity of his subjects with profound empathy. This dedication to the workers' cause transcended his art; Luce was an active member of the anarchist movement, and his political beliefs significantly influenced the subjects and themes of his paintings.

Luce shared a close bond with another great Impressionist, Camille Pissarro. Their friendship was rooted in mutual respect and shared political ideologies, with both artists being vocal anarchists. Pissarro's influence is evident in Luce's early works, and their correspondence over the years reflects deep intellectual and artistic exchanges. This camaraderie not only enriched their personal lives but also bolstered their creative output, contributing significantly to the Impressionist and neo-Impressionist movements.