Code 908-52

"Mireille" Sculpture from Provence, France

H=17 1/2, W=22 3/4, D=9 5/8

The second half of the 19th century saw a revival of theProvencal language and culture, particularly traditional rural values. driven by a movement of writers and poets called the Felibrige, led by poet Frederic Mistral. Mistral achieved literary success with his novel Miréio (Mireille in French); he was awarded the Nobel Prize for literature in 1904.
In Provence, Mirèio is the daughter of a rich farmer. She is in love with a modest basketmaker, Vincènt. Her father disapproves of the relationship and seeks others suitors. Mirèio, in despair, escapes from her house to Saintes-Maries-de-La-Mer. There she prays to the saints that her father will accept her relationship with Vincènt. The way is hard and unbearably hot. At the end, the saints appear to Mirèio. They tell her of their happiness in Paradise, and Mirèio dies in peace.
Today, the word “Mireille” in Provence is used to refer to young women who remain unmarried.  Paintings, sculptures and other works of art that depict Mireille are often recognized as so by the clothing and style of the young woman and pastoral scene.

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