The artwork “Water Lilies, Green Reflection (right half)” was created by the renowned artist Claude Monet between 1920 and 1926. It is part of the vast Water Lilies series, which exemplifies the flower painting genre within the Impressionist movement. The Impressionist movement is known for its approach to capturing the effects of light and atmosphere in the landscape, a theme that Monet pursued with great dedication through his depiction of water lilies in various atmospheric conditions.
This particular piece of the series is marked by a lush display of floating water lilies set against a complex network of reflections that blur the boundary between the underwater foliage and the sky’s reflection. The color palette predominately features a range of greens imbued with subtle variations, infusing the artwork with a sense of tranquility and depth. Monet’s mastery in illustrating the reflections and the play of light across the water’s surface is evident, as these elements become almost abstracted in their form. The brushstrokes are loose and expressive, which allows for the water’s surface to shimmer with a dynamic quality, typical of Monet’s later works in the series. The nuanced interplay of shadow and light contributes to the overall serene and contemplative mood that is characteristic of Monet’s exploration of his water garden in Giverny. Overall, the artwork stands as a testament to Monet’s enduring legacy in the development of Impressionism and the contemplative power of his late style.
