Created:
Movement:
1891
Impressionism
key Notes:
Impressionistic landscape, Subdued palette
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Dimensions:
30 1/8 x 25 1/16 in. (76.5 x 63.7 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Waterfall" is a painting by American Impressionist artist John Henry Twachtman, created around 1889 to 1891. The work exemplifies Twachtman's interest in capturing the effects of light and movement in nature. It depicts a cascading waterfall surrounded by lush foliage, rendered in a loose, expressive brushwork characteristic of the Impressionist style. Twachtman was influenced by his studies in Europe, particularly in France, where he encountered the works of Claude Monet and other Impressionists. The painting reflects Twachtman's ability to convey the sensory experience of a natural landscape, emphasizing the interplay of water and light. "Waterfall" is part of the collection at the Cincinnati Art Museum, which holds a significant number of Twachtman's works. The exact circumstances of its creation remain largely undocumented.

Description of the work:

"Waterfall" by John Henry Twachtman, created circa 1889–91, is an oil on canvas painting that captures a cascading waterfall surrounded by lush foliage. The composition is characterized by a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, with the water rendered in fluid, expressive brushstrokes that convey movement and vitality. Twachtman's use of color is notable, featuring a palette of greens, blues, and whites that evoke a sense of tranquility and natural beauty. The surrounding landscape is depicted with a soft focus, emphasizing the waterfall as the focal point of the work. The painting reflects the artist's interest in the effects of light on water and the atmospheric qualities of nature. The overall effect is one of harmony and serenity, inviting the viewer to engage with the natural scene.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Waterfall