River Scene with Ducks

This peaceful river landscape depicts the Oise near the village of Auvers, where Daubigny built a home in 1860. At the far right, mostly hidden by a clump of trees, is Daubigny’s studio boat, nicknamed Le Botin (Little Box). It was originally a ferry boat which the artist had converted with the addition of oars and a cabin. From 1857 Daubigny used it to paint many views, particularly along the Oise. Its last outing was in 1867, after which he installed it in his garden in Auvers and replaced it with a second vessel on the river. Daubigny’s example inspired Monet to acquire a studio boat in 1872.

The view was painted in a number of thin layers over a period of time. In the water the brushwork is very fine and feathery, but the sky has been handled quite roughly, with swirling clouds depicted in circular strokes of different greys.

Text: © The National Gallery, London

Painting photographed in its frame by Google Arts & Culture, 2023.