Created:
Movement:
1869
Realism
key Notes:
Realism, Tranquility
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Dimensions:
23 1/2 x 28 3/4 in. (59.7 x 73 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Calm Sea" is a painting by French artist Gustave Courbet, created in 1869. The work exemplifies Courbet's interest in realism and his focus on natural landscapes. It depicts a serene seascape characterized by gentle waves and a tranquil sky, reflecting the artist's mastery of light and color. The painting is notable for its lack of human figures, emphasizing the beauty and stillness of nature. "Calm Sea" is part of Courbet's exploration of the relationship between humanity and the natural world. The current location of the painting is unknown.

Description of the work:

"Calm Sea" by Gustave Courbet, created in 1869, is an oil on canvas painting that depicts a serene marine landscape. The composition features a vast expanse of water rendered in varying shades of blue and green, reflecting the tranquility of the sea. The horizon line is low, allowing for a broad view of the sky, which is painted in soft, muted tones. The brushwork is fluid and expressive, capturing the gentle movement of the water's surface. The absence of human figures or boats emphasizes the solitude and stillness of the scene. The overall mood conveys a sense of peace and contemplation, characteristic of Courbet's engagement with natural subjects. The painting exemplifies the artist's commitment to realism and his ability to evoke emotion through the depiction of nature.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Calm Sea