Beach at Ebb Tide c. 1850 - 1878

Charles-François Daubigny made this oil painting, "Beach at Ebb Tide," at some point in the mid-19th century. It shows a view of the French coast that is unspectacular, without the drama of crashing waves or towering cliffs. In Daubigny's time, state-sponsored Salons and Academies still held enormous power over the art world, favoring grand historical and mythological paintings. In contrast, this work feels radical for its understated depiction of everyday life. It's a celebration of the ordinary. The loose brushwork, the muted colors, and the focus on natural light all contribute to this sense of immediacy and realism. To understand this painting fully, we can explore the changing social attitudes towards nature and leisure in 19th-century France. We might look at travel guides, popular literature, and even scientific studies of the coastline. By understanding the context in which Daubigny was working, we can appreciate the painting's subtle commentary on the values of his time.