Artwork

Noon

Noon, by Joseph Vernet, oil, 1760
Noon, by Joseph Vernet, oil, 1760

Noon is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Joseph Vernet. It dates from 1760 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.

About this work

Overview

Noon, a 1760 oil painting by Joseph Vernet, presents a tranquil river scene illuminated by soft, midday light. Characteristic of Vernet's maritime and landscape oeuvre, the work emphasizes atmospheric depth and realistic detail.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts everyday life at a riverside, with figures gathered near the water and a bridge in the background, conveying a sense of serene, daily activity under cloudy skies.

Technique & Style

Executed in a realistic style with meticulous attention to detail, Noon employs a varied color palette to achieve a sense of spatial depth and atmospheric luminosity, aligning with Rococo's emphasis on light and naturalism.

History & Provenance

Created in 1760, Noon is now part of the Fitzwilliam Museum's collection, reflecting Vernet's reputation as a prominent French painter of maritime and landscape subjects.

Context

Noon exemplifies Vernet's exploration of the interplay between light, atmosphere, and everyday scenes, typical of his contributions to 18th-century French landscape painting.

River Scene with Bathers
River Scene with Bathers, Joseph Vernet

Artist & collection

Portrait of Joseph Vernet

Artist

Joseph Vernet

Claude-Joseph Vernet (French pronunciation: ; 14 August 1714 – 3 December 1789) was a French painter. His son Carle Vernet and daughter Marguerite Émilie Chalgrin were also painters.

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

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Noon?

Noon was painted by Joseph Vernet in 1760.

Where can I see Noon?

Noon is held by Fitzwilliam Museum.

What movement is Noon?

Noon is associated with Rococo painting.