The artwork titled “Val d’Aosta. Man Fishing,” created around 1907 by the esteemed artist John Singer Sargent, is an evocative oil painting on canvas. Characterized by the Impressionist movement, this genre painting measures approximately 56.21 by 71.75 centimeters and is currently housed in the Addison Gallery of American Art at Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, USA.
In “Val d’Aosta. Man Fishing,” Sargent captures a serene riverside scene with distinctive Impressionist techniques. The painting depicts a man reclining on lush greenery by the water’s edge, engrossed in the act of fishing. The composition emphasizes the interaction between light and nature, with rich, vibrant colors and dynamic brushstrokes portraying the shimmering water and the sunlit flora. The relaxed pose of the figure and the intimate setting evoke a sense of tranquility and immersion in nature, characteristic of genre paintings from this period. The detailed and textured treatment of the natural surroundings reflects Sargent’s mastery in rendering lifelike and engaging outdoor scenes.