In 1887, Renoir, one of the greatest of the French impressionist painters, broke his arm falling from a bicycle. This brought on his first attack of muscular rheumatism. This disease worsened as time went on, leaving Renoir constantly in pain, though he continued to paint. Chasing the pain-relieving warmth, he spent more and more time in the south of France and in 1907 built a house in Cagnes on the Riviera. His new home was beautiful with olive trees, orange blossoms and views over the Mediterranean. The brilliant light, beauty and warmth combined to ease the pain and enthuse his creativity.
Autograph Letter Signed, Cagnes, January 11, 1907, just after his move to Cagnes, praising the place and expressing his interest in history. "I have received your book which I will read with pleasure. I love ancient history. We have also received... the peach trees that you have sent. They have been planted in good conditons and superb soil. We can eat excellent peaches thanks to you. The weather here is always unbearably beautiful. It never wants to rain..."