The Thames at Westminster (1871) by Claude Monet

The Thames at Westminster - Claude Monet - 1871

Artwork Information

TitleThe Thames at Westminster
ArtistClaude Monet
Date1871
MediumOil on Canvas
Dimensions72.5 x 47 cm
Art MovementImpressionism
Current LocationNational Gallery, London

About The Thames at Westminster

The artwork “The Thames at Westminster” is an exemplary painting by Claude Monet that dates back to 1871. Executed in oil on canvas, the artwork measures 72.5 by 47 centimeters and exemplifies the Impressionist movement of which Monet was a pivotal figure. As a cityscape, it portrays a vivid yet transient moment of urban life along the River Thames. Presently, this illustrious piece is housed at the National Gallery in London.

In “The Thames at Westminster,” Monet presents an atmospheric depiction of the Thames and its embankments, infused with the distinctive light and ambiance that characterize his oeuvre. The composition features the notable silhouette of the Houses of Parliament looming through a haze, a testament to Monet’s fascination with the interplay of light, shadow, and the ephemeral nature of the moment. The river below is animated with the activity of boats, which are painted with quick, gestural strokes that capture their movement and the reflective qualities of water. Monet’s use of color and light masterfully conveys the misty atmosphere of London, allowing the viewer to sense the coolness of the air. The foreground includes mooring posts and figures along the quayside, adding a human element to the urban landscape, while the handling of the painting suggests a spontaneity and immediacy that are hallmarks of the Impressionist style.

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