Cézanne, Paul: The Château Noir saga


The château in those paintings derives its name from rumors about its owner, rather than from its appearance. It was built in the 18th century by an industrialist from Marseilles, who manufactured lampblack paint (derived from soot). He also used it to decorate the interior walls and furniture of the château. As a result, he was associated with black magic among the local people, who believed that the château was also home to the devil.
© 25 Dec 1995, Nicolas Pioch - Top - Up - Info

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