A Breezy Day
1850
watercolor
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1850
watercolor
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This painting shows a small sailboat on wavy water, leaning slightly as if caught in a breeze. The sky is pale and flat, while the sail glows with a warm, light brown color. In the distance, a faint shoreline has a few trees and buildings, but they’re barely detailed. The artist used loose, quick brushstrokes to suggest movement in the water and wind. The sail’s glow stands out against the muted blues and greens around it. If you like this style, check out Impressionism next.