Sunset over the Sea by Henri-Edmond Cross
"Sunset over the Sea" by Henri-Edmond Cross, painted in 1895, is a striking example of the Neo-Impressionist style, characterized by its innovative use of color and brushwork. Cross, a prominent figure in the movement alongside Georges Seurat and Paul Signac, employs a vibrant palette and a distinct brushstroke technique to convey the atmospheric effects of a sunset at sea. The painting showcases his signature use of broken color and light, capturing the transition from daylight to twilight with dynamic intensity and vivid hues.
Created during a period when Cross was deeply engaged with the principles of color theory and light, "Sunset over the Sea" reflects his interest in depicting the natural world with scientific precision while maintaining an emotional resonance. The work represents a significant moment in his artistic development, as he moved towards more abstracted forms and expressive color combinations. Cross's attention to the interplay of colors and his ability to evoke the mood of a setting sun are evident in this composition, making it a notable contribution to his oeuvre and the broader Neo-Impressionist movement.
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Location and Date Created: France, 1895.
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Medium: Oil on canvas.
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Full Artwork Name: Sunset over the Sea.
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Artwork Style: Neo-Impressionism.
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Current Location: The painting is part of the collection at the Musée d'Orsay, Paris.
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Subject/Topic: The sea at sunset, with an emphasis on the interplay of colors and atmospheric effects, rendered with Cross’s distinctive brushwork and color techniques.
