By the River 1885

"By the River" (1885) is a captivating oil-on-canvas painting by American artist John Singer Sargent. The painting depicts a woman dressed in elegant attire, seated in a boat on a river. She is immersed in reading, creating a sense of tranquility and contemplation. Sargent's signature loose brushstrokes and vibrant colors capture the beauty of the natural setting and the light filtering through the trees. The work is a classic example of Sargent's mastery of Impressionist techniques and his keen eye for capturing fleeting moments of beauty. "By the River" showcases Sargent's talent for portraying the elegance and leisure of high society in the late 19th century.