The Water Lily Pond

By: Claude Monet, 1899

Describe

The Water Lily Pond is a painting of an old bridge stretching over a pond. Monet achieves a thick texture and depth in this piece by using soft, short brush strokes and an array of green shades.

Analyze

Interpret

~ Equal balance and symmetry
~ Flowers add pops of color/variety
~ Many shades of green unify the piece
~ The steady reflection on the water and the horizontal direction of its space portrays absolute stillness

I believe this work is communicating the simple beauty in nature. I do not think the original purpose of this painting was to convey the emotion of serenity, but I feel the still movement and dominant use of one color relaxes the eye and is very peaceful.

Serenity