Mouth of the Apponaganasett River

1883

From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art

Impressionism Realism Late 19th Century Landscape

About this work

This sketch shows a quiet river meeting the sea. The water is choppy near the shore, with small waves breaking over rocks. In the distance, a lone boat sits on a sandy strip, surrounded by low bushes and a few tall grasses. The artist used quick, sketchy lines to capture light and movement—notice how the water looks almost alive. This style was common in late 19th-century American art. Next, check out Robert Swain Gifford (American, 1840–1905) for more of his landscapes.