The artwork “Cour du Havre (Gare St. Lazare)” was crafted by the esteemed artist Camille Pissarro in the year 1893. This piece is rendered in oil on canvas and represents the Impressionist movement, an art form known for its ability to capture the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere. The painting measures 51 by 42.5 centimeters and belongs to the cityscape genre. As of the last available information, it resides within a private collection.
In the artwork, Pissarro depicts a bustling scene situated at the Gare Saint-Lazare train station in Paris. The canvas is alive with quick, dappled brushstrokes that deliver the quintessential visual texture of Impressionism. These strokes form myriad figures that populate the courtyard, suggesting a lively, fluid mass of people in transit. In accordance with Impressionist tenets, the play of light and color is prominently featured, conveying not just the physical aspects of the scene but also the atmosphere and energy of the moment. The paint application is dynamic and appears almost hasty, contributing to the sense of movement and vibrancy. The station building looms in the background, while in the foreground, forms of carriages and figures merge in a tapestry of urban life. The artwork captures a typical day at the train station, characterized by the flurry of daily commutes and the constant motion inherent to urban settings. Pissarro’s work reflects his fascination with modern life and the transformation of Paris in the late 19th century.