The artwork “Gardanne (Horizontal View)” is a captivating example of Post-Impressionist art by Paul Cézanne, created around the year 1885. This oil on canvas masterpiece measures 65 x 100 cm and falls under the cityscape genre. The artwork is part of the collection housed at the Barnes Foundation, located in Philadelphia, PA, United States.
“Gardanne (Horizontal View)” presents a rich and textured portrayal of the French town of Gardanne. The composition displays a series of angular structures that recede into the distance, demonstrating Cézanne’s innovative approach to perspective and form. The palette is composed of earthy tones, with touches of blues and greens, capturing the essence of the natural environment and the built architecture in a harmonious blend.
Cézanne’s brushwork is apparent through the thick application of paint, contributing to the overall sense of volume and depth. A notable characteristic of the artwork is the manner in which it conveys the structural solidity of the buildings while simultaneously emphasizing the shifting quality of light and color. This juxtaposition reflects the Post-Impressionist movement’s interest in expressing more subjective and personal responses to the observed world, rather than adhering to strict realism.
In summary, “Gardanne (Horizontal View)” is an exemplary work of the Post-Impressionism era, characterized by its distinctive style of geometric simplification, which would later influence the development of Cubism and other avant-garde movements. The artwork remains a testament to Cézanne’s profound impact on the trajectory of modern art.
