The Pool at Jas de Bouffan c. 1885 - 1886

"The Pool at Jas de Bouffan" (c. 1885-1886) by Paul Cézanne is a quintessential example of the artist's signature style. The painting depicts a tranquil garden scene at the artist's beloved estate in Aix-en-Provence, France, with a focus on the interplay of light and shadow on the trees, foliage, and the stone fountain. Cézanne's characteristic brushstrokes, applied in short, broken strokes, create a vibrant and textured surface, emphasizing the three-dimensionality of the scene. The composition is carefully constructed, creating a sense of depth and perspective. The painting is considered a key example of Cézanne's move toward a more abstract style, paving the way for the development of modern art.