By the Sea 1864

Claude Monet's "By the Sea," painted in 1864, is a quintessential example of his early Impressionist style. The painting captures a serene landscape with a distant view of the sea peeking through the lush vegetation. The soft brushstrokes and vibrant colors, particularly the pale blue sky, create a sense of light and airiness. The use of light and shadow, a defining characteristic of Monet's work, emphasizes the natural beauty of the scene and the changing nature of light.