Argenteuil c. 1872

Claude Monet’s “Argenteuil” (c. 1872) is a prime example of Impressionist painting, showcasing the artist's fascination with capturing the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere. The painting depicts a serene view of the Seine River at Argenteuil, a town near Paris, where Monet resided during the early 1870s. The soft, broken brushstrokes and use of color create a sense of vibrancy and movement, characteristic of the Impressionist style. The painting's composition focuses on the river and its reflection, with a path leading the viewer's eye toward the horizon. Monet's ability to capture the interplay of light and shadow on water and foliage, and the overall sense of tranquility, makes this a quintessential example of his work.