Valley of the Creuse, Sunset 1889

'Valley of the Creuse, Sunset' was painted by Claude Monet in France, who was a founder of French Impressionist painting. Monet and the Impressionists broke from the traditional art institutions of their time, such as the French Academy, who were committed to a more conservative, realist style. Instead, Monet sought to capture the transient effects of light and atmosphere, particularly in his en plein air landscapes. Here, he represents the Creuse valley with quick, broken brushstrokes and vibrant colors, in order to convey the subjective experience of the landscape at sunset. Monet's Impressionist style can be seen as a radical challenge to the art establishment of his time. Understanding the context of this work requires us to look to the social conditions that gave rise to Impressionism, such as the rise of modernity, as well as the institutional context in which Monet was working. The art historian plays a crucial role in uncovering these hidden histories.