“The Jetty,” created circa 1930 by artist Paul Signac, is a cityscape watercolor on paper reflecting the Neo-Impressionist art movement. The artwork measures a modest 10.8 by 16.5 cm and is currently held in a private collection. This artwork’s small scale belies its rich content and is indicative of Signac’s skill in using watercolors to render scenes with precision and delicacy.
The artwork portrays a maritime scene with a jetty prominent in the composition. In the foreground, the water mirrors the sky and structures, imbuing the scene with a sense of symmetry and calm. A large, masted ship is anchored to the jetty, its rigging and masts intricately detailed, hinting at the significance of maritime life. The bold, red flag at the top of the painting provides a striking contrast against the otherwise soft color palette dominated by blues, grays, and earth tones. Architectural features flank the ship, suggesting the proximity of urban life. The delicate strokes and fluidity of the watercolor medium create a sense of movement within the water and sky, contributing to an overall atmosphere of dynamism juxtaposed with the static elements of the jetty and ship.
