Border of the Woods 1885

Alfred Sisley’s ‘Border of the Woods’ uses oil paint to capture a landscape, but also something more. Painted in France, Sisley’s image reflects the social and cultural shifts of his time. The late 19th century saw rapid industrialization, but also a growing appreciation for the natural world. Artists like Sisley turned their attention to landscapes, not just as pretty scenes, but as spaces shaped by human presence and the changing seasons. Consider the way Sisley renders the sky, the trees, and the path: loose brushstrokes and a sense of light create an atmosphere that speaks to the changing times. Understanding the context of this artwork means looking at exhibition records, artists’ letters, and the writings of critics who engaged with these images when they were new. The meaning of art is not fixed. It changes as society changes.