The painting titled “By the Water” is an 1881 landscape oil on canvas by Impressionist artist Camille Pissarro. This piece belongs to the Impressionism movement and is situated in a private collection. Common to the Impressionist genre, Pissarro’s work is notable for its vibrant brushstrokes and the luminous depiction of natural light.
In the artwork, we observe a serene waterside scene. Two women are in the foreground, one facing us and the other with her back turned, appearing engaged in a quiet moment by the water’s edge. There is a small dog seated near the woman looking away, adding a touch of domestic comfort to the outdoor setting. The water itself is textured with reflections and gentle ripples, indicative of the essential Impressionist focus on light and its changing qualities on the landscape. A boat with passengers is depicted in the background, making its way across the calm water. On the other side of the bank, hues of green suggest a lush environment, possibly fields or trees in the distance. The palette is primarily composed of blues, greens, and earth tones, imparting a peaceful, tranquil atmosphere. Pissarro’s skillful use of brushwork effectively conveys the effect of the daylight shimmering on the surface of the water and through the foliage, a key characteristic that defines the Impressionistic treatment of the scene.
