The Effect of Sunlight on the Banks of the Loing 

Francis Picabia, a figure who would later reject Impressionism, painted this river scene sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century. At this time, the Seine and the Loing rivers were celebrated as sites of leisure and recreation for a growing middle class. There's a sense of calm here; the sunlight dapples on the water, and the trees offer shade and serenity. Yet, it's hard to ignore the subtle hints of social stratification embedded in this landscape. Who has the privilege to escape to the countryside, to enjoy leisurely boat rides, and to observe the changing effects of light? Picabia, born to a wealthy family, enjoyed access to these spaces and experiences. In this painting, the artist presents not just a landscape, but a reflection on privilege, leisure, and the complexities of modern life. It invites us to contemplate the intersections of class, nature, and artistic representation.