Walk (Road of the Farm Saint-Siméon) (1864)
Claude Monet's "Walk (Road of the Farm Saint-Siméon)" is a mesmerizing depiction of a rural path in Normandy, painted during a formative time in the artist’s career. Created between the summer and fall of 1864 while Monet was in Honfleur with fellow artists, the painting is part of a series capturing the essence of the road leading to the Farm Saint-Siméon. This piece reflects Monet's innovative approach to capturing light and landscapes, setting the stage for his future masterpieces in the Impressionist movement.
1864
About the Artwork
Painted in 1864 during his stay in Honfleur, Claude Monet's "Walk (Road of the Farm Saint-Siméon)" captures a moment steeped in artistic camaraderie. Accompanied by fellow artists such as Eugène Boudin and Frédéric Bazille, Monet engaged in exploring the picturesque landscapes of Normandy. This painting is one of at least ten he created portraying the same road, signifying his early investigation into the serial depiction of subjects. Through this work, Monet not only honed his technique but also laid the groundwork for the revolutionary Impressionist movement that would challenge conventional artistic practices. The painting’s journey through various ownerships, including a period of government sequester during World War II, reflects its historical significance, while its current home in Tokyo’s National Museum of Western Art underscores its lasting legacy in the art world.
