Artwork

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 Tuilleries and Bridge and taken from Pont de la Concorde, by Girtin, 1802
A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris:  View of the Tuilleries and Bridge and taken from Pont de la Concorde, by Girtin, 1802

A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris: View of the Tuilleries and Bridge and taken from Pont de la Concorde 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

Overview

This 1802 watercolour by Thomas Girtin presents a serene cityscape of Paris, focusing on the Tuileries Palace and its bridge from the vantage point of Pont de la Concorde.

Subject & Meaning

The work captures a quintessential Parisian scene, emphasizing architectural and urban elements characteristic of Girtin's oeuvre, with subtle human presence in the foreground.

Technique & Style

Executed in a romantic style, the piece features soft coloration and gentle lighting, leveraging Girtin's technical prowess to create depth and atmosphere through nuanced light and shadow.

History & Provenance

Created during Girtin's period of creative interchange with J.M.W. Turner, this watercolour is part of a series of Parisian views and is now held in the collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Context

This work reflects Girtin's role in elevating watercolour as a respected artistic medium, aligning with the broader artistic movements of his time, notably Romanticism.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Girtin

Artist

Girtin

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.

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