“The Palace of Westminster,” created by André Derain between 1906 and 1907, is an exemplary piece representing the Neo-Impressionism and Divisionism movements. This cityscape artwork vividly captures the well-known landmark of the British Parliament through the use of vibrant, fragmented brushstrokes and distinct color combinations typical of the genre and artistic periods.
The artwork presents a striking view of the Palace of Westminster set against a brilliantly colored sky and reflective waters. In the foreground, several boats are depicted on the Thames River, their forms outlined but not strictly defined, contributing to the overall impressionistic aesthetic. The building itself, rendered in deep, cool tones, stands in stark contrast to the warm, luminous hues of the water and the sky, enhancing the visual dynamism of the scene. The artist employs a technique characterized by small, dot-like brushstrokes that merge to create a cohesive yet subtly vibrant effect, exemplifying the principles of Divisionism. The contrasting colors and the interplay of light and shadow imbue the painting with a sense of movement and fleetingness, reflecting the bustling atmosphere of the city while highlighting the iconic architecture of Westminster.
