“Quay in Rouen Sunset” is a notable work by the artist Camille Pissarro, created in the year 1896. The artwork is an oil on canvas and falls within the Impressionist movement, renowned for its distinct approach to capturing light and atmosphere. It is a cityscape measuring 45 x 55 cm and is currently housed in a private collection.
The artwork presents a vivid impression of a sunset at the quay in Rouen, rendered with the loose brushwork characteristic of Impressionism. The setting sun has stained the clouds with shades of yellow, orange, and pink, reflecting off the surface of the water, creating a shimmering effect. The skyline is marked by industrial structures, with the silhouettes of moored ships and masts stark against the vibrant sky. Smoke billows from stacks, suggesting the presence of active industry, and figures can be seen on the quay, though their details are obscured, emphasizing the focus on the overall mood and setting over specific narrative details. The artwork vibrantly encapsulates the fleeting effects of light on the landscape, a hallmark of Pissarro’s artistic pursuit within the Impressionist movement.
