Mont Sainte-Victoire and the Viaduct of the Arc River Valley

Paul Cézanne

Created:
Movement:
1885
Post-Impressionism
key Notes:
Post-Impressionist landscape, Geometric brushstrokes
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Dimensions:
25 3/4 x 32 1/8 in. (65.4 x 81.6 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Mont Sainte-Victoire and the Viaduct of the Arc River Valley" is a landscape painting by French artist Paul Cézanne, created between 1882 and 1885. The work depicts the iconic Mont Sainte-Victoire, a mountain located in Provence, France, which Cézanne painted numerous times throughout his career. The composition features the viaduct of the Arc River Valley, showcasing Cézanne's interest in the interplay between natural and constructed forms. This painting exemplifies Cézanne's innovative approach to color and form, emphasizing geometric shapes and a unique perspective. It reflects his desire to capture the essence of the landscape rather than a mere representation. The work is considered a precursor to modern art, influencing later movements such as Cubism. The painting is part of the collection at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Specific details regarding its exhibition history or provenance are not widely documented.

Description of the work:

"Mont Sainte-Victoire and the Viaduct of the Arc River Valley" is an oil on canvas painting by Paul Cézanne, created between 1882 and 1885. The composition features the prominent mountain, Mont Sainte-Victoire, rendered with a series of geometric shapes and a palette dominated by earthy tones and blues. The viaduct, depicted in the foreground, is constructed with bold, linear forms that contrast with the softer, organic shapes of the landscape. Cézanne employs a technique of broken brushstrokes, which creates a sense of texture and depth throughout the work. The sky is painted in varying shades of blue, interspersed with white clouds, contributing to the overall atmospheric quality. The arrangement of elements within the painting reflects Cézanne's interest in the interplay between structure and nature, emphasizing the relationship between the mountain and the surrounding landscape. The work exemplifies Cézanne's innovative approach to perspective and form, marking a significant development in the transition towards modern art.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Mont Sainte-Victoire and the Viaduct of the Arc River Valley