Berthe Morisot, a French Impressionist painter, created The Harbor at Lorient in 1869. As one of “les trois grandes dames” of Impressionism, she was the first woman member of the circle of painters in Paris who became known as the Impressionists. Like Monet, Morisot was concerned with the effects of natural light on the surfaces of her subjects. In The Harbor at Lorient, she captured a vibrant scene depicting a harbor and ships from an unusual lower field of vision.
Morisot began studying drawing at the age of 16 and advanced to oil painting while studying under Joseph Guichard in Paris. She often explored themes that were traditionally associated with women such as domestic life and landscapes rather than historical or mythological scenes that male artists favored during her time. Her focus on ordinary moments provided insight into daily existence and added a touchstone for later generations seeking to redefine traditional notions.
Today, The Harbor at Lorient is part of an impressive immersive impressionist tribute gallery located within the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC., featuring sculptural images which enhance classic impressionists’ artwork seeking to offer viewers an even more vivid connection to national treasures such as Berthe Morisot’s masterpiece.
