The Courtauld’s exhibition presents 21 views by Claude Monet of the River Thames, painted in the late 1890s. The artwork captures the beauty and atmospheric effects of London’s fog through vibrant colours and light. Despite historical context and inspiration from predecessors, Monet’s style stands out. The collection is a long-awaited tribute to his vision of London’s iconic scenery, having been delayed for nearly 120 years.
The Courtauld’s latest exhibition showcases 21 poignant views of the Thames painted by Claude Monet, illustrating the painter’s remarkable perception of light and atmosphere amid the foggy backdrop of London. These works, painted between 1899 and 1901 from his suite in the Savoy, encapsulate the enchanting qualities of the polluted air; Monet described the fog as a “delicious” source of beauty. The paintings depict both bustling scenes with horse-drawn carriages and serene, ethereal views of architecture appearing to float in the mist. Despite the historical weight and inspiration drawn from predecessors like Turner, Monet’s vision remains uniquely stunning and somewhat modern, suggesting a nuanced interpretation of industrial life in London. This exhibition memorialises Monet’s long-overdue exploration of the iconic scenery of London. After nearly 120 years since plans to exhibit a similar series in London fell through, viewers can finally experience these enthralling pieces, highlighting how Monet’s experiments with “effets de brouillard” encapsulate a beautiful yet complex portrayal of the Thames and its surroundings.
This exhibition at The Courtauld focuses on Claude Monet, a seminal 19th-century French artist known for his innovative approach to capturing light and atmosphere. His series on the Thames comprises works reflecting both the urban hustle of London and the ethereal beauty of its fog-laden vistas. This timely exhibition highlights Monet’s artistic legacy while also underscoring the environmental implications of industrialisation in the late 19th century.
The exhibition underscores Monet’s unparalleled ability to capture the beauty and complexity of the Thames under varying atmospheric conditions. Despite initial setbacks in showcasing his work in London, this long-awaited exhibition offers a fresh perspective on London’s urban landscape, framing it through Monet’s unique lens of colour and light. Ultimately, it reaffirms Monet’s status as a transformative figure in the art world, providing a visually stunning yet thought-provoking experience for visitors.
Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk