Artwork

Étretat, the Rock Needle and the Porte d'Aval

Étretat, the Rock Needle and the Porte d'Aval, by Claude Monet, oil, 1894
Étretat, the Rock Needle and the Porte d'Aval, by Claude Monet, oil, 1894

Étretat, the Rock Needle and the Porte d'Aval is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Claude Monet. It dates from 1894 and is held in the collection of the Art Gallery of Ontario.

About this work

Overview

Étretat, the Rock Needle and the Porte d'Aval is an oil painting depicting a serene seascape.

Subject & Meaning

The painting features a prominent rock formation, surrounded by calm water and sky, evoking a sense of tranquility. The rock's central placement creates a focal point in the otherwise peaceful scene.

Technique & Style

The work showcases a characteristic use of color, with a light blue-green foreground, warm beige rock, and soft pale blue sky. Gentle brushstrokes capture the lapping waves and wispy clouds, contributing to the overall sense of serenity.

History & Provenance

Created in 1894, the painting is now held at the Art Gallery of Ontario.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Claude Monet

Artist

Claude Monet

Oscar-Claude Monet was born in Paris on November 14, 1840, and raised from the age of five in Le Havre, where he began selling charcoal caricatures as a teenager.

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