Artwork
A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris
A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris is a print by the Romanticist artist Girtin. It dates from 1802 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
This painting shows twenty small watercolor views of Paris rooftops and landmarks. The colors are soft but bright, like early morning light. It’s not a real scene—Girtin combined different views into one.
Watercolor was new then. Artists usually used it for quick sketches, not big works. Girtin made it look easy, even though it wasn’t.
Check out Thomas Girtin (British, 1775–1802).
Overview
A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris is a print series by Thomas Girtin, created in 1802. It comprises twenty watercolor views of Parisian cityscapes.
Subject & Meaning
The series presents a composite representation of Paris, combining multiple rooftops and landmarks into a single, non-realistic scene. The views capture the city's architectural and urban character.
Technique & Style
Girtin's work showcases his skill with watercolor, a medium then typically used for sketches. He employed soft yet vibrant colors, evoking the effect of early morning light.
Context
Girtin's series reflects his focus on architectural and urban subjects, a theme that situates him alongside his contemporary, J. M. W. Turner.
Artist & collection
Artist
Thomas Girtin (18 February 1775 – 9 November 1802) was an English watercolourist and etcher. A friend and rival of J. M. W. Turner, Girtin played a key role in establishing watercolour as a reputable art form.
A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris: View of Pont Neuf, and the Mint
A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris: View of the City with the Louvre taken from the Pont Marie
A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris: View of the Tuilleries and Bridge and taken from Pont de la Concorde
A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris: View of the Pantheon taken from the Arsenal
A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris: View of the Palace and Village of Choisi on the Banks of the Seine
A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris: View of the Louvre and Bridge of the Tuilleries taken from Pont Neuf
Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris:View of Pont au Change
A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris: View of Pont au Change, the City Theatre, Pont Neuf, Conciergerie Prison, and taken from Pont Notre Dame
A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris: A General View of Paris, taken from Chaillot
Two Views of Paris (verso)