Claude Monet (1840-1926) was a French painter and one of the key figures of Impressionism, an art movement that sought to capture the fleeting effects of light, atmosphere, and color in outdoor scenes.Monet's paintings often depicted landscapes, gardens, and scenes of everyday life. He had a particular fascination with water and its reflective qualities, which is evident in his series of paintings of water lilies, haystacks, Rouen Cathedral, and the Houses of Parliament in London.One of Monet's signature techniques was his use of loose brushwork and broken color to capture the effects of light and its ever-changing nature. He sought to convey his personal impressions and sensations of a scene rather than aiming for a precise representation.Monet's plein air (outdoor) painting approach allowed him to capture the natural variations of light and color, often working rapidly to capture the shifting conditions. He would frequently paint the same subject multiple times at different times of day or under different weather conditions, exploring the nuances of light and its impact on the scene.The term "Impressionism" actually originated from Monet's painting titled "Impression, Sunrise," which was exhibited in 1874. The loose and spontaneous brushwork, along with the emphasis on capturing the atmospheric effects of light, became defining characteristics of the Impressionist movement.Over the course of his career, Monet's style evolved. In his later years, he developed a more abstract approach, focusing on the interplay of colors and light rather than detailed representation. His works became larger in scale, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the experience of his paintings.Claude Monet's contributions to art were groundbreaking, as his exploration of light, color, and atmospheric effects challenged the established norms of academic painting. His works laid the foundation for modern art movements and continue to inspire artists to this day. Monet's paintings can be found in major museums and art collections worldwide, and his legacy as one of the greatest painters of the Impressionist era remains strong.
Measures 20 x 30.