THE CEMETERY
Renoir and Essoyes are the story of a mutual adoption : a discreet but sincere attachment, even in memory.
After Renoir’s death in 1919, in accordance with his wishes, he was buried in the Essoyes cemetery. His grave lies in this peaceful spot, offering visitors and admirers of Renoir a place to pay their respects and pay homage to the artist.
Renoir’s grave is often flowered and tended, demonstrating the continuing appreciation for his artistic legacy. The presence of Renoir in the Essoyes cemetery contributes to the importance the village attaches to his role in the artist’s life.
Join us for a visit full of emotion and respect for those who have helped to shape the art and culture of Essoyes.
A FINAL TOUCH OF MISCHIEF
This humble tomb, that of the painter, is marked by a final touch of mischief asked of his son Jean : “Don’t make me put down a stone that is too heavy, so that I’ll have the strength to lift it if I sometimes feel like going for a walk in the countryside…”.
A LAST WISH
Although none of the family members died in Essoyes, they chose to be buried in the village cemetery, which they loved so much. Two graves, located one behind the other, bear the name of this illustrious family.
The first, adorned with a bust of Renoir by Richard Guino, is home to the painter, his sons Pierre and Jean, and Jean’s second wife, the Brazilian-born scriptwriter Dido Freire. In the second tomb, originally crowned by a bust of Aline by the same Richard Guino, are buried Aline, her mother Thérèse Emilie Maire, Claude Sr known as ‘Coco’, the couple’s third son, and Claude Jr, Pierre’s son.
