Artwork

The Path to the Old Ferry at By

The Path to the Old Ferry at By, by Alfred Sisley, oil, 1890
The Path to the Old Ferry at By, by Alfred Sisley, oil, 1890

The Path to the Old Ferry at By is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Alfred Sisley. It dates from 1890 and is held in the collection of the Tate Britain.

About this work

Overview

The Path to the Old Ferry at By is a landscape painting created by Alfred Sisley in 1890 using oil paint. It is a characteristic example of Impressionist art, emphasizing natural scenery and the fleeting effects of light.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a serene scene on the Seine River, with a winding path leading to a ferry. The atmosphere is tranquil, with dappled shadows and soft light filtering through the trees, creating a sense of calmness and emphasizing the natural beauty of the location.

Technique & Style

Sisley employed soft brushstrokes and muted colors to convey a sense of peacefulness. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth to the composition, guiding the viewer's eye along the path and into the background, where the ferry and river are subtly integrated into the landscape.

History & Provenance

The painting is part of the collection at Tate Britain, representing the artist's contribution to the Impressionist movement. Sisley, a French-born British painter, dedicated his work to landscape painting, often working en plein air.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Alfred Sisley

Artist

Alfred Sisley

Alfred Sisley (; French: ; 30 October 1839–29 January 1899) was a French-Born British Impressionist landscape painter who was born to British parents, but spent most of his life in France.

Tate Britain

Museum

Tate Britain

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Tate Britain open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.