Meadows in Giverny 1888

Claude Monet made this painting, "Meadows in Giverny", using oil paints on canvas, reflecting his interest in capturing the fleeting qualities of light and atmosphere. Monet's technique of applying small strokes of color creates a vibrant surface, where the texture and form of the field emerge through layers of pigment. The visible brushwork reminds us of the labor involved in creating this pastoral scene, and the time that Monet spent observing the meadow. The use of commercially produced oil paints was crucial. It allowed Monet to efficiently translate his observations into art. These tubes of paint became widely available during the Industrial Revolution, reflecting a shift in how art was produced and consumed. Monet's focus on serial observation and capturing immediate sensations would not have been possible without it. Considering the materials and making of "Meadows in Giverny" enriches our understanding, bridging traditional art history with the social and economic contexts that shaped its creation.