Paul Bret French, 1902-1956

Paul Bret was one of the first French twentieth century artists to work in Greece. He had a studio in Athens to which he returned from outings to the Greek provinces, executing a series of thirty paintings depicting the splendours he encountered. Among these paintings was the present work, which depicts the Easter celebrations at Megara.

The life of Megara's inhabitants was dependant on the land and sea, as they made a living through agriculture, fishing and seafaring. Independant from Athens, the small republic had its own traditions, folklore and costumes.

The women of Megara were renowned for their beauty, which was enhanced by the costumes they wore when dancing at local public holidays. The Tratta was commonly danced on Easter Tuesday.

French art critics at the time commended Bret for his ability to capture the light of Greece, and for his choice of interesting and engaging subject matter.