ARTWORKS

River Scene

Théodore Rousseau (1812–1867)

The National Gallery, London

River Scene

Image credit: The National Gallery, London

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In the middle distance, a solitary figure fishes from a flat-bottomed boat or punt moored in an inlet of water, which may be part of a river estuary. Although there are trees, the landscape is flat and marshy with small rivulets running through it. The thin strip of grey-blue on the horizon suggests a further expanse of open water, perhaps a wide river or the sea. The absence of dramatic or picturesque effects enhances the slightly melancholic mood.

The picture is similar to Rousseau’s river landscapes of the 1850s, which were all studio compositions based on scenery along the west coast of France. It is likely he painted it in the studio as a souvenir of visits to the Loire river, or perhaps to the Lay river in the Vendée.

The National Gallery, London

London

Read more on The National Gallery, London
Title

River Scene

Date

about 1840-60

Medium

Oil on wood, probably oak

Measurements

H 31.4 x W 40.3 cm

Accession number

NG2439

Acquisition method

Presented by Sir J.C. Day, 1909

Work type

Painting

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Normally on display at

The National Gallery, London

Trafalgar Square, London, Greater London WC2N 5DN England

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Artist or maker

Théodore Rousseau

1812–1867

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