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The art of champagne: How the drink influenced artists throughout history
By Shivani Dubey | 11 October 2024 | Arts, Food & Drink
With Frieze London in full swing, we look into the intersection of art and champagne, and how it has inspired legions of artists over time
Frieze Art Fair has finally made it to London. From 9 to 13 October, Regent’s Park will turn into a huge celebration of fine arts, as the most prestigious art fair comes to town. And more often than not, the best way to enjoy art is with a glass of champagne in hand.
Throughout history, this bespoke drink — and the wine region of France — has inspired artists for centuries, who often incorporated champagne into their many famous works. And what better time to take a deep dive into the historical intersection of art and champagne by looking into the works of famous artists through the centuries, than during Frieze Week?
From the first ever depiction of a champagne bottle in art to striking posters featuring the drink, below, we take a look at the art of champagne.
Related: Curator Jenn Ellis on collaborating with Breguet for Frieze 2024
Jean-François de Troy: Le Déjeuner d’huîtres (1735)
This Rococo masterpiece was commissioned by Louis XV to adorn the dining room of the lesser apartments at Versailles. Notably, it features the first depiction of a champagne bottle in art, setting the stage for its cultural significance.
The painting showcases an opulent oyster lunch, where four figures gaze in delight at a champagne cork being popped, capturing a moment of joy and celebration. The foreground emphasises a champagne bottle in a cooler and it is worth noting that guests are shown drinking champagne from conical glasses, very different from the tulip shaped flutes recommended today.
De Troy’s work encapsulates the festive spirit associated with champagne, perfectly complementing the luxurious meal of oysters—a fashionable and luxurious delicacy of the era.
Jan Baptist Huysmans: Les Buveurs de Champagne (1889)
Renowned for his orientalist scenes, Huysmans led a peripatetic lifestyle filled with adventures that often-included the sharing of champagne. In this piece, he portrays the intimate act of uncorking a bottle, symbolising friendship and connection—values that French novelist Honoré de Balzac famously associated with champagne.
The painting reveals Huysmans’ deep respect for the cultures he encountered, which is described with great precision in his illustrated travel stories – depicting himself poised to pour Champagne in a moment that bridges cultures and celebrates shared experiences.
Indeed, French statesman Talleyrand described champagne as “the wine of civilisation” – champagne was served during major discoveries in Egypt and presented as a gift with local authorities.
Related: The Dalmore’s exclusive Curated Excellence collaboration returns for Frieze Week
Pierre Bonnard: France – Champagne (1891)
A pivotal figure in the post-impressionist movement and a member of the avant-garde painters, Les Nabis, Bonnard was instrumental in bringing champagne into the public eye through his striking posters which were displayed in Paris and other major cities around the world. His notable 1891 poster for France-Champagne catapulted him into fame, with hundreds of posters displayed across Paris, showcasing his ability to blend fine art with popular culture.
Bonnard’s vibrant and decorative style reflects the celebratory nature of Champagne, making it a focal point in social gatherings. His works serve as a testament to how both Champagne and Art can elevate everyday experiences.