Paris Street Rainy Day is a painting created in 1877 by French Impressionist artist Gustave Caillebotte. This masterpiece is not just a beautiful piece of art but also a representation of the changing times in Paris during the late 19th century.
The Painting
The painting depicts a typical street scene in Paris on a rainy day. The viewer is positioned on the corner of two streets, looking down one avenue and across another. The wet cobblestone streets reflect the light from the street lamps and the facades of buildings are blurred by the rain, giving a dreamy effect to the painting.
The Technique
Caillebotte was known for his use of perspective, which is evident in this painting. He used what is called ‘worm’s-eye view’ to create depth and give the viewer the feeling of being part of the scene. The figures in the foreground are larger than those in the background, which adds to this effect.
Artistic Influences
Caillebotte was heavily influenced by photography and Japanese prints, which can be seen in his work. He used photography as reference material for some of his paintings and was inspired by Japanese prints’ use of perspective.
Historical Context
Paris Street Rainy Day was painted during a time when Paris was undergoing significant changes. Baron Haussmann, who served as prefect of Seine from 1853 to 1870, modernized Paris by completely redesigning it with new streets and buildings. This led to Paris becoming one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
Conclusion
Paris Street Rainy Day is not only a beautiful painting but also an important piece of art that represents changing times in Paris history. It shows how artistic techniques can be influenced by other cultures and how art reflects society’s changes. This masterpiece continues to inspire artists and art lovers all over the world.