The artwork titled “Tree by the River” was created by Pierre Bonnard in 1909. This oil-on-canvas piece belongs to the Post-Impressionism art movement and portrays a landscape genre. Measuring 102 x 81.5 cm, the painting is currently housed in a private collection.
“Tree by the River” portrays an idyllic and tranquil scene where a lush tree dominates the foreground, its dense foliage rendered in intricate detail with greens, purples, and blues. The tree, laden with leaves, stands beside a gentle river, suggesting a serene natural environment. The artist’s use of color and light is evident in the juxtaposition of vibrant tones in the foliage against the soft, muted background of the river and landscape beyond. The composition suggests a sense of depth and calm, capturing a moment of stillness in nature. The presence of a white structure, possibly part of a fence or bench, in the lower-left corner adds a subtle human element to the otherwise unspoiled scenery. Bonnard’s brushstrokes create a textured surface, enhancing the tactile qualities of the tree’s leaves and the landscape’s components, epitomizing the Post-Impressionist focus on expressive color and composition.
