Claude Monet’s “The Beach at Etretat,” painted in 1883, is a notable work of the Impressionism art movement. This landscape genre masterpiece is currently housed at the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, France.
The painting presents a vibrant depiction of the beach at Étretat, a commune on the coast of Normandy in France. Monet’s brushwork captures the shimmering effect of light on the water with loose, gestural strokes that give a sense of motion to the sea and the sky. The beach is dotted with boats, some moored and others with sails unfurled, likely indicating the presence of local fishermen. In the foreground, groups of people can be seen enjoying the seaside, offering a glimpse into leisure activities of the time. The towering cliff in the background, with its striated patterns, looms over the beach and contrasts with the horizontal lines of the shore, creating a dramatic backdrop. The colors are typically impressionistic, with a harmonious blend of blues, greens, and earth tones, conveying the natural beauty and atmosphere of the coastal scene. Monet’s signature is visible at the bottom right of the canvas, marking his artistic presence in this breathtaking seascape.
