La Seine à Honfleur, marée basse 1874

This etching, La Seine à Honfleur, marée basse, was created by Carel Nicolaas Storm van 's-Gravesande, capturing a low tide scene in the late 19th century. It reflects the artist’s interest in depicting the working life around harbors and the shifting conditions of light and weather. Van 's-Gravesande’s choice of subject and medium connects him to the broader social and economic transformations of the period. As port cities like Honfleur became hubs of industrial activity, artists sought to document these changes. The image hints at the lives of those who worked along the Seine, their livelihoods tied to the tides and the rhythms of maritime commerce. The visible marks of the etching process mirrors the grit and labor of port life. This work offers a glimpse into a world shaped by both natural forces and human endeavor. As you consider this image, reflect on the countless individual stories interwoven within its delicate lines.