The Needle of Etretat, Low Tide (1883) by Claude Monet

The Needle of Etretat, Low Tide - Claude Monet - 1883

Artwork Information

TitleThe Needle of Etretat, Low Tide
ArtistClaude Monet
Date1883
Art MovementImpressionism

About The Needle of Etretat, Low Tide

The artwork titled “The Needle of Etretat, Low Tide” was created by the renowned Impressionist artist Claude Monet in the year 1883. The painting is a quintessential example of the Impressionist art movement, which is characterized by a focus on the effects of light and color, often depicting outdoor scenes and landscapes. “The Needle of Etretat, Low Tide” falls within the genre of landscape, capturing the majesty and transient beauty of the natural environment.

In the artwork, the viewer is presented with a dynamic landscape dominated by the impressive natural rock formations of Etretat, located on the Normandy coast of France. Monet’s use of color is both subtle and dramatic, reflecting the changing qualities of light. The natural arch and the pinnacle known as the Needle are rendered in warm tones, suggesting the glow of sunlight against the rocks. The sea is depicted in low tide, revealing dark, algae-covered rocks that contrast with the reflective pools of tidal water. There is an expressionistic application of paint, with visible brush strokes that create a sensation of movement within the tranquil scenery, a hallmark of Monet’s work. The sky is depicted with soft color variations, lending a hazy quality that suggests either early morning mist or the soft light of dusk.

This piece captures the fleeting moments of light and atmosphere, enticing the viewer to appreciate the spontaneous interplay between the natural elements. Monet’s expert manipulation of color and texture brings about a visceral experience, encouraging an emotional response to the simple grandeur of the scene. It is a testament to the artist’s pursuit of capturing the essence of a moment as perceived through his impressionist gaze.

Other Artwork from Claude Monet

More Impressionism Artwork

Scroll to Top