The artwork titled “Paris, a Rainy Day” was created by Gustave Caillebotte in 1877. It is an oil on canvas painting characteristic of the Impressionism art movement. The dimensions of this artwork are 212.2 cm × 276.2 cm, and it falls under the genre of sketch and study. The artwork is currently housed in the Musée Marmottan Monet, located in Paris, France.
The artwork presents a view of urban life in Paris, capturing a moment on a rain-soaked day. The setting appears to be an intersection of city streets lined with the classic architecture of Haussmann’s renovation of Paris. The streets are populated with various figures, most prominently a couple walking arm in arm, shielding themselves with their umbrellas from the inclement weather. The subdued palette of grays and blues creates a damp atmosphere, while the reflections on the wet cobblestones add to the realism of the scene. The city’s inhabitants are dressed in the fashion of the time, with the men wearing top hats and coats and the women in elegant attire. The composition is meticulously constructed, with the vanishing point drawing the viewer’s eye deep into the urban landscape. This scene is a typical representation of Caillebotte’s interest in the modern city life of Paris during the late 19th century, showcasing his skill in painting light and weather conditions to evoke a particular mood.
