Stream in the Woods 1860

Stream in the Woods was painted by Camille Corot, using oil on canvas. The brushwork is soft and blended, which creates a hazy, dreamlike effect, evoking the play of light and shadow in the forest. Notice how the layers of paint build up the texture of the trees and foliage, giving a sense of depth and atmosphere. Corot belonged to a generation of French artists who valued painting directly from nature. They set up their easels en plein air, allowing the changing light and weather to influence their work. This approach to art-making reflected a broader shift in society, as industrialization changed the landscape. Artists like Corot looked to the natural world for inspiration, finding beauty in the simple, everyday scenes around them. By paying attention to the materials and processes that shaped Stream in the Woods, we gain a deeper appreciation for the work, and its connection to the world around it.