The Seine below the Pont d'Iéna - Berthe Morisot

A view of the Seine with the Pont d'Iéna by Berthe Morisot, a leading Impressionist. The painting captures the atmospheric conditions of the river with loose brushwork and a muted palette.

Berthe Morisot, a leading figure of Impressionism, painted this view of the Seine with the Pont d'Iéna in the background. The Pont d'Iéna, commissioned by Napoleon I, connects the Eiffel Tower area to the Trocadéro district. Morisot's loose brushwork and muted palette capture the atmospheric conditions of the scene, typical of Impressionist techniques. The painting focuses on the river, with several boats moored along the banks. The skyline of Paris is visible in the distance, punctuated by a tall chimney or tower. Morisot often depicted scenes of modern life, and her portrayals of the Parisian landscape reflect the changing urban environment of the late 19th century. Unlike some of her contemporaries, she frequently included figures in her outdoor scenes, adding a narrative element to her work. This painting, however, is more focused on the interplay of light and water, demonstrating her mastery of Impressionist principles. The composition is divided into horizontal bands, with the sky, river, and foreground vegetation creating a sense of depth. The reflections in the water add to the overall sense of movement and transience, characteristic of Impressionism's interest in capturing fleeting moments.