Cliff near Pourville 1882

Claude Monet captured this scene of the Cliff near Pourville with oil on canvas, although the specific date remains unknown, it reflects his focus on landscapes during his career. Monet, as part of the Impressionist movement, was interested in capturing the transient effects of light and atmosphere. Monet often painted ‘en plein air’, or outdoors, to directly observe and record these fleeting moments. It is interesting to consider the cultural context of the late 19th century, a time of rapid industrialization and urbanization, which led many artists to seek refuge in nature. This piece invites us to contemplate our relationship with the natural world. "I wish I had been born blind and then one day had my sight given to me so that I could see the sunrise as you do," Monet once said. The painting captures a moment of serene contemplation and reflection. It reminds us of the importance of preserving our natural environment, while it highlights the emotional and personal dimensions of our interactions with it.