The artwork titled “Saint Sever, Rouen Morning, Five O’Clock” is an oil on canvas painting created by the artist Camille Pissarro in the year 1898. It is a splendid example of the Impressionist movement, measuring 65 by 81 centimeters. This cityscape portrays an early morning scene and is currently held in a private collection.
This particular artwork captures a tranquil city awakening at dawn with soft light illuminating the landscape. The cityscape shows a view of Saint Sever, a district in Rouen, with its various buildings, an arched bridge spanning a river, and smokestacks punctuating the skyline. The smoke, caught in the gentle morning breeze, billows into the pastel-hued sky, blending with the delicate light of the breaking day. The brushstrokes are loose and visible, characteristic of Impressionism, suggesting the fleeting moment of sunrise rather than meticulously detailing the scene. The river reflects the colors of the sky and the dark forms of ships and docks, suggesting a bustling port coming to life. The painting communicates the essence of the city at that specific hour, inviting viewers to appreciate the interplay of light, atmosphere, and industrial activity so typical of the Impressionist genre.
