The artwork titled “Cottages,” created by the artist Paul Cezanne around 1885, is a cityscape executed in watercolor on cardboard. It is associated with the Post-Impressionism movement and is currently held in the collection of the Smith College Museum of Art (SCMA) located in Northampton, MA, USA.
The artwork features a scene of rural houses, possibly on the outskirts of a town. The composition highlights several buildings which appear to be simple and functional in nature, characterized by muted tones and soft color washes that suggest the tranquil atmosphere of a humble village setting. The artist has employed loose brushwork, which gives the piece a sense of informality and immediacy, an approach often found in studies or sketches.
While details are sparingly rendered, one can discern the windows, doors, and structural lines that give form to the cottages. The light seems to be coming from the left, casting gentle shadows and illuminating part of the buildings. In the background, a soft cluster of tree foliage introduces a hint of greenery, contrasting with the earthy tones of the architecture. This work embodies the spirit of Post-Impressionism, where the artist’s subjective experience and the use of color and form hold primacy over the accurate representation of reality.
