The artwork titled “The Sun Sets, Perce Rock, Gaspe, Quebec,” created by artist William Bradford in 1867, exemplifies the Romanticism art movement and belongs to the marina genre. This depiction of the sunset over Perce Rock, located in Gaspe, Quebec, captures a serene and evocative seascape.
In the artwork, Perce Rock is silhouetted against the setting sun, which casts a golden hue across the sky and reflects upon the tranquil waters. The prominent rock formations occupy the left and center portions of the composition, their dark masses contrasting sharply with the vibrant backdrop. The gradient of colors transitions from deep blues of the ocean to the warm yellows of the horizon. The shore in the foreground is sparsely detailed, allowing the viewer’s attention to be drawn towards the natural grandeur of the geological formations and the mesmerizing play of light. The overall scene conveys a sense of calm and breathtaking beauty, characteristic of the Romanticism movement’s focus on nature’s sublime power and tranquil moments.