Artwork

Water Lilies

Water Lilies, by Claude Monet, oil, 1915
Water Lilies, by Claude Monet, oil, 1915

Water Lilies is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Claude Monet. It dates from 1915 and is held in the collection of the Musée Marmottan Monet.

About this work

Overview

Water Lilies is a landscape painting by Claude Monet, executed in oil paint in 1915. It is part of the collection at the Musée Marmottan Monet.

Subject & Meaning

The painting captures a serene natural scene of a pond covered with lily pads and blooming water lilies, evoking a peaceful atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Characterized by loose, expressive brushstrokes, the work conveys a sense of movement and energy. Monet employed a range of textures, from smooth lily pads to impasto water effects, adding depth to the composition.

Context

Typical of Monet's oeuvre, Water Lilies reflects his fascination with capturing light and color in outdoor settings, a hallmark of Impressionist practice.

Legacy

As part of Monet's body of work, Water Lilies contributes to the broader legacy of Impressionism, influencing subsequent artistic movements with its emphasis on natural light and color.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Claude Monet

Artist

Claude Monet

Oscar-Claude Monet was a French painter and founder of Impressionism who is seen as a key precursor to modernism, especially in his attempts to paint nature as he perceived it.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Musée Marmottan Monet open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Water Lilies?

Water Lilies was painted by Claude Monet in 1915.

Where can I see Water Lilies?

Water Lilies is held by Musée Marmottan Monet.

What movement is Water Lilies?

Water Lilies is associated with Impressionism.