Coucher Du Soleil Sur La Rivière 

"Coucher Du Soleil Sur La Rivière" is an oil on panel by Charles-François Daubigny, presenting a serene yet somber landscape. The composition unfolds horizontally, mirroring the tranquil flow of the river under a vast sky, its surface reflecting the atmospheric gradations above. Daubigny's use of color is restrained, dominated by muted greens and grays, evoking a sense of calm and introspection. The brushwork is loose and fluid, which captures the fleeting effects of light and weather. The horizon line is low, which emphasizes the sky's dominance and enhances the viewer's sense of immersion. This painting is a study in the poetics of space, engaging with the sublime through the manipulation of light and atmosphere, rather than grand, dramatic scenery. It challenges the traditional hierarchy of landscape painting, where the subject matter often took precedence over the formal qualities of the work. Daubigny elevates the ephemeral and the ordinary. The subtle gradations of tone and the interplay of light and shadow invite a contemplative gaze.