“The House (Wall) in Blue,” created by Henry Ossawa Tanner in 1912, is an Impressionist cityscape. The artwork showcases Tanner’s adept command over the Impressionist style and exemplifies his vision of urban architecture through a contemplative and evocative portrayal.
The artwork predominantly features a cool palette with varying shades of blue, which lends a serene and somber atmosphere to the piece. A central building with a sloping roof dominates the composition, partially obscured by the indistinct but deliberate brushstrokes characteristic of Impressionism. The application of paint creates a sense of depth and texture, while the suggestion of light and shadow evokes a calm, almost dreamy quality. Subtle architectural details, such as arches and windows, emerge from the abstraction, guiding the viewer’s gaze through the scene. The overall effect is one of a quiet, reflective urban environment captured through a semi-abstract lens.