Impressionism
A 19th-century art movement characterized by relatively small, thin, yet visible brush strokes, open composition, and an emphasis on accurate depiction of light in its changing qualities.
The Origins
Originating with a group of Paris-based artists (Monet, Renoir, Pissarro) whose independent exhibitions brought them to prominence during the 1870s and 1880s, the name of the style is derived from the title of a Claude Monet work, Impression, soleil levant (Impression, Sunrise).
Key Characteristics
- Light: Capturing the sensory effect of a scene (the impression) rather than objects.
- Brushwork: Rapid, broken brushstrokes that convey movement and spontaneity.
- Subject: Scenes of modern life and landscapes, often painted en plein air (outdoors).
Why It Matters for Collectors
Impressionism is considered the birth of Modern Art. It broke the rules of academic painting and paved the way for every avant-garde movement that followed.
Market Context
While "museum-quality" Impressionist masterpieces are often priced in the tens or hundreds of millions, collectors can still find value in:
- Works on Paper: Drawings and pastels by major figures.
- Lesser-known Impressionists: The movement was global; American or Australian Impressionists are often more accessible than their French counterparts.
Related Terms
Visual representation of Impressionism