Artwork
A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris: View of the Palace and Village of Choisi on the Banks of the Seine
A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris: View of the Palace and Village of Choisi on the Banks of the Seine is a print by the Romanticist artist Thomas Girtin. It dates from 1802 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 1950.219.14
- Credit line
- Dudley P. Allen Fund
About this work
Overview
A watercolour cityscape by Thomas Girtin, created in 1802, depicting a serene Seine-side scene of the Palace and Village of Choisy near Paris, featuring everyday life elements amidst architectural grandeur.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is the tranquil coexistence of daily life and grand architecture by the Seine. The inclusion of a small boat, cart, and figures emphasizes the harmony between human activity and the natural, picturesque setting.
Technique & Style
Girtin utilized a vibrant color palette to capture the interplay of light on water and buildings, characteristic of his advancement of watercolour techniques, blending detail with an overall sense of calm.
History & Provenance
Part of Girtin's A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris, created during his 1801-02 residency in the city. Noted for his brief yet influential career as a British watercolourist and etcher, ending with his death at 27.
Context
Aligned with the Romanticism movement, emphasizing beauty, tranquility, and the interaction between nature and human presence, reflecting Girtin's contribution to the era's artistic themes.
Legacy
Contributes to the legacy of early 19th-century watercolour innovation and the Romantic movement's visual identity, inviting viewers to explore similar works within this artistic context.
Artist & collection
Artist
Thomas Girtin (18 February 1775 – 9 November 1802) was an English watercolourist and etcher. A friend and rival of J. M. W. Turner, Girtin played a key role in establishing watercolour as a reputable art form.
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