The artwork “Marina, Sunset” was created by the artist Edgar Degas in 1869. Executed in pastel on paper, this piece is exemplary of the Impressionism movement, which is characterized by a depiction of light and its changing qualities, often embodying a sense of movement. The genre of the artwork is marina, and it currently resides in a private collection.
The artwork presents a serene maritime scene, marked by a gentle gradation of colors that suggests the transition of time at dusk. The horizon is softly delineated, with the sky taking on a dominant role as it transitions from a warm yellow to subdued hues that suggest the onset of evening. This pastel work features minimalistic expression, with a few distinct strokes indicating the presence of boats on the water. The reflection of the setting sun gently paints the sea’s surface with a delicate play of light and shadow, invoking a sense of tranquility and reflection. The loose and rapid handling of the pastel medium is indicative of Degas’s approach during this period, where he captured fleeting moments with an emphasis on atmospheric effects and light rather than precise details.
