Artwork

Lake with Rowboat

Lake with Rowboat, by Berthe Morisot, ink, 1888
Lake with Rowboat, by Berthe Morisot, ink, 1888

Lake with Rowboat is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Berthe Morisot. It dates from 1888 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Lake with Rowboat, a 1888 drypoint print on laid paper by Berthe Morisot, captures a serene lakeside moment. Characteristic of Impressionist themes, the work focuses on everyday life and the interplay of light.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a peaceful lakeside scene with a partially visible rowboat in the foreground, set against a backdrop of trees surrounding the lake. The subject reflects Morisot's interest in tranquil, contemporary settings.

Technique & Style

Executed in drypoint, the piece showcases Morisot's mastery of line and shading to achieve depth and dimension. The dominant blues and greens, accented with browns and blacks, contribute to the serene atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Created in 1888, Lake with Rowboat is part of Morisot's output during her association with the Impressionist movement. Her career spanned exhibitions at the Salon (from 1864) and the Impressionists' independent shows (from 1874).

Context

This work is emblematic of the Impressionist focus on light, everyday life, and the beauty of mundane scenes, aligning with the movement's broader artistic goals.

Legacy

Lake with Rowboat contributes to Morisot's legacy as a pioneering female Impressionist, highlighting her skill in both painting and printmaking within the movement.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Berthe Morisot

Artist

Berthe Morisot

Berthe Marie Pauline Morisot (French: ; 14 January 1841 – 2 March 1895) was a French painter, printmaker and a member of the circle of painters in Paris who became known as the Impressionists.

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