Low Tide at Pourville
Painting on canvas • Claude Monet (French, 1840–1926)
Style & Movement
Impressionism
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas, employing Impressionist techniques such as 'en plein air' execution, broken brushstrokes, and wet-on-wet application (alla prima) to capture flickering light on water.
Creation Period
Circa 1882
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 60 x 81 cm (23.6 x 31.9 inches); landscape orientation.
Subject Description
A coastal landscape featuring the towering chalk cliffs of Pourville-sur-Mer in Normandy. The composition is divided by a high horizon line, focusing on the expansive tidal flats at low tide. Small figures are scattered along the shoreline, providing scale to the massive cliffs. The sunlight reflects off the shallow water and damp sand using a palette of pale blues, yellows, and pinks.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The paint film appears stable with a well-preserved impasto. There is minimal evidence of thinning or harsh past cleaning.
Estimated Market Value
$5,000,000 - $10,000,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$4,000,000 - $8,000,000 USD
Provenance History
Likely originated from a private collection after sale through Paul Durand-Ruel or Boussod, Valadon & Cie. Typical of Monet's Pourville series, many of which are now in major institutions like the Brooklyn Museum or the Musée d'Orsay.
Art Historical Significance
1882 was a pivotal year for Monet, marked by a prolific summer at Pourville. This work exemplifies his transition toward the late 'series' paintings where the focus shifted from topographical accuracy to the atmospheric effects of light and weather on a single subject. It represents the quintessential Impressionist obsession with the ephemeral.
Notable Features
The distinctive treatment of the reflection in the tidal pools demonstrates Monet’s mastery of color theory, using complementary tints to create the illusion of shimmering water without defined lines.
Condition Issues
Minor surface dirt and a slightly yellowed varnish layer. Some fine craquelure visible in the areas of thicker lead-white application, which is consistent with the age of the materials.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional surface cleaning and a sensitive revarnishing with a non-yellowing synthetic resin. Maintain in a climate-controlled environment with humidity between 45-55% and low UV light exposure.