Autumn on the Seine, Argenteuil (Automne sur la Seine Argenteuil)

Monet executed this work of the Petit Bras, a branch of the Seine near Argenteuil, shortly after his arrival in Argenteuil in 1871. The vantage point suggests he painted this work from the small boat that he converted into a floating studio. In the background are recognizable architectural landmarks including the Château Michelet. The relatively small, delicate brushstrokes underscore this work as a painting created during the “high” or “classic” phase of Impressionism. Monet’s use of brilliant colors is mirrored in the water below, resulting in a remarkable symmetry that makes it difficult to distinguish between the reflected colors and their sources.