Dolceacqua, Bridge 1884

Claude Monet painted this view of the bridge at Dolceacqua using oil paints, a medium that lends itself to capturing fleeting impressions. Look closely, and you'll see how the material qualities of oil paint have been exploited to convey the scene's textures. The bridge is rendered with thick, visible brushstrokes that mimic the rough texture of the stone. The lush greenery of the hillside is evoked with layered daubs of green and brown paint. Monet’s technique conveys not just the appearance, but also the very feel of the landscape. Consider the labor involved in extracting pigments, mixing paints, and applying them to the canvas. Monet's work ethic reflects the industrializing world he inhabited. The quick, deliberate strokes suggests an artist working efficiently to capture a scene as if time is money. Monet elevates the act of painting, traditionally a craft, to the realm of fine art, reflecting broader shifts in the art world during this period. By valuing the handmade, he elevates a work of art beyond mere commercial value.