The artwork, titled “The East River,” is a masterpiece created by William Merritt Chase in 1886. Executed in oil on panel, this celebratory piece of Impressionism belongs to the marine genre. Currently held within a private collection, the artwork showcases Chase’s adept ability to capture ephemeral light and atmospheric conditions.
“The East River” portrays a tranquil riverscape scene. At the forefront, a lone figure navigates a small rowboat across the reflective waters. The river, dotted with the occasional ripple, mirrors the muted palette of the overcast sky above. In the background, several large vessels are docked, their forms softly defined against the hazy cityscape. Chase’s brushwork imbues the scene with a sense of calm and contemplation, emphasizing the interplay between natural light and the urban environment. This composition exemplifies the artist’s skill in merging the vibrancy of human activity with the serene qualities of the natural world.
