The artwork titled “Bathing at Alfortville” was created by Henri Rousseau circa 1904. It is an oil on canvas piece categorized under the Naïve Art movement, specifically Primitivism, and it represents the genre of cityscape. Rousseau’s work is not currently on public display as it resides within a private collection.
The artwork portrays a tranquil river scene bisecting a town, with the focal point being a bridge that connects both sides of the urban landscape. The body of water reflects a gentle calmness and is punctuated by small boats and floating platforms, one of which is occupied by a figure in a red garment. On the left bank, a lone figure can be seen, while a scattered few others enjoy the water. In the background, rows of uniformed houses are nestled among the hills, and trees rise to punctuate the skyline. Subtle industrial elements are presented in the form of smokestacks releasing plumes of smoke into the otherwise serene atmosphere, subtly suggesting the encroachment of industry into natural spaces. Rousseau’s characteristic flatness and simplified detail permeate the composition, inviting viewers into a dream-like, almost otherworldly rendition of a cityscape at the turn of the 20th century.
