Are you looking for a moment of peace and tranquility in your busy life? Art always has a way of talking without words. Today I want to introduce to you the stunning 19th century landscape paintings that captured the beauty and serenity of the natural world.
The 19th century was a time of great change in the art world, and landscape painting emerged as a popular genre with many different styles. However, one common theme among these works is the ability to evoke a sense of peace and calm in the viewer.
In this article, we will explore some of the most breathtaking and tranquil 19th century landscape paintings, each one a masterpiece in its own right. So sit back, relax, and let these stunning works transport you to a world of beauty and tranquility.
19th century landscape paintings for you:
“Afternoon rest”, by Peter S. Kroyer (1851-1909)
The main character of this painting is actually Kroyer’s wife, who was reclining in the garden, completely at ease.
The painting is characterized with soft, muted shades of green and blue, creating a calming atmosphere that is just perfect for an afternoon nap.
I love how the flowers add a pop of color to the painting, but even those flowers are not too bright or overpower the sense of peace and quiet of the whole view.
Overall, “Afternoon Rest” is a beautiful example of Kroyer’s talent for capturing the beauty of simple moments in life. And it carries typical features we often see in the 19th century landscape paintings.
Hameau aux environs de Pontoise – “Hamlet in the vicinity of Pontoise” by Camille Pissarro (1830-1903)
“Hameau aux environs de Pontoise” is a painting by French artist Camille Pissarro, created in 1873.
The painting is all about the rustic beauty of the town of Pontoise, located in the Île-de-France region of France.
Pissarro was known for his interest in capturing the effects of light and atmosphere, and you can see this is evident in “Hameau aux environs de Pontoise”.
There are small buildings, including a farmhouse, a barn, and a few smaller structures, nestled in the midst of rolling green hills. The painting has a soft, muted quality, with a range of subtle colors and delicate brushstrokes that brings out a sense of peacefulness and tranquility.
After Breakfast, 1890 – Childe Hassam (1859 – 1935)
You can feel the warm and golden light of the morning sun just by looking at this painting.
The garden itself here is a study in color. The vibrant hues of the red flowers and the green foliage behind, all provides a beautiful contrast to the muted tones of the woman’s white dress.
I specifically love the use of red here as it creates a sense of vibrant energy in the painting. This clearly show Hassam’s ability to capture the essence of a moment in time.
The Artist’s Garden at Vétheuil – Claude Monet (1840-1926)
Completed in 1881, “The Artist’s Garden at Vétheuil” depicts Monet’s garden at his home in Vétheuil, a small village on the banks of the Seine River northwest of Paris.
The painting exudes a vivid atmosphere of a summer’s day, where everything is at the pinnacle of its life force and vibrancy. Monet showcased his signature use of light and color here emphasized by the use of golden tones across the scene.
Overall, the whole scene is a celebration of the joys of gardening and the simple pleasures of life.
Coquelicots, La promenade (Poppies) – Claude Monet
Next in the list of my favourite 19th century landscape paintings is another masterpiece from Claude Monet.
Following the end of the Prussian War, Monet, together with his wife Camille and young son Jean, returned to France from England in the autumn of 1871. They settled in the charming Parisian suburb of Argenteuil, where they spent several happy years. It was during this period that Monet painted his famous work, “Coquelicots”, also known as “Poppies”.
To me,the paintings evokes a sense of joy, freedom and a feeling of nostalgia as if I am witnessing a moment in time that will soon be gone forever.
The White Bridge, 1895 – John Henry Twachtman
I guess this painting describes the atmosphere of a typical summer day. The bridge is the focal point of the painting, with its white color standing out against the natural surroundings. The beauty of the painting comes from how the sunlight is reflected off the white bridge.
His way of mixing light and color in the painting really captures the beauty and tranquility of nature. When I look at this painting, time seems to stop and I am transported to that still moment in a sunny day.
In the Garden – FRANCIS COATES JONES (1857-1932)
Don’t think I am biased towards European artists because the pieces I have shared so far are from European artists. The 19th century in America was a time of incredible experimentation and innovation in the world of art, and there are many pieces from that era that really resonate with me. Here is one of them: “In the Garden” by Francis Coates Jones.
What I love most about this painting is again, the way it illuminates the beauty of everyday life. The elegant beauty of the woman in her blue dress, the delicate white and pink flowers scattered throughout the scene, and the peacefulness of the garden all come together to create a truly special moment captured on canvas.
I hope that this article has helped you develop a deeper appreciation for the art of the 19th century. While this collection of the 19th century landscape paintings represents just a small sampling of the many masterpieces created by talented artists of that era, I hope that it has given you a glimpse into the creativity and beauty of that time period.
Please feel free to share your thoughts and ideas, as well as your own favorite works of art from this time. For me, it’s these pieces that truly make me appreciate life more.
