“Traffic Island on Boulevard Haussmann” is an Impressionist oil on canvas cityscape painted by Gustave Caillebotte circa 1880. This artwork is part of a private collection and captures a distinctive urban scene, characteristic of Caillebotte’s interest in the modern life of Paris during his time.
The artwork itself presents a sweeping view of a city street, presumably Boulevard Haussmann based on the title. It depicts a spacious urban setting with a central traffic island anchoring the composition. The island is lightly adorned with street lamps and a cluster of figures, possibly pedestrians and a seated individual, who reside within its circular boundary. Surrounding the island are wide boulevards that stretch out towards the edges of the canvas, providing a sense of open space.
The periphery of the island serves as a focal pathway for various figures and horse-drawn carriages which move through the painting. The people are portrayed at different distances, some up close and others fading into the background, hinting at the depth and dynamism of the scene. The street itself is rendered with broad and loose brushstrokes, emblematic of the Impressionist style, which suggest the texture of the paved road and the play of light across its surface.
In the distance, buildings can be seen, but they are subordinated to the broad expanse of the boulevard in the foreground. The palette consists of a range of subtle earth tones, with the cool shadows contrasting against the warmer hues of the ground, capturing the transient effects of sunlight.
Caillebotte’s work is notable for its modernity, and this cityscape is no exception. It portrays the new urban landscapes of Paris that emerged during the late 19th century, a subject that fascinated the artist throughout his career.
