La Seine À Bougival 1876 - 1877

Alfred Sisley created this oil on canvas painting, La Seine à Bougival, to capture a seemingly ordinary scene, but its significance lies in its representation of modern life in France. Sisley, like other Impressionists, sought to break away from academic traditions by depicting everyday subjects and capturing the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere. The image creates meaning through its visual codes, depicting a tranquil scene of people enjoying a leisurely stroll along the Seine, with buildings and trees lining the riverbank. The painting reflects the changing social landscape of France in the late 19th century, as industrialization and urbanization transformed the country. To understand this work better, we can examine the social and economic conditions of the time, including the rise of the bourgeoisie and the growth of leisure activities. Art historians rely on archival research, period literature, and cultural studies to gain insights into the meaning and significance of such paintings.