The Western Ramparts at Aigues-Mortes

The Western Ramparts at Aigues-Mortes by Frederic Bazille was one of the works in the art industry that expressed impressionism. In 1867, the same year the painting was released, Bazille decided to be interested in the western rampart of his native land. Bazille wanted to do a painting that had never been done in the country. Therefore, he visited Aigues-Mortes and started doing the historic art.

He set up a temporary studio at the shallow side of the lagoon that he could have a clear view of the rampart. Reports show that it took him about two sessions to complete the whole painting. The Western Ramparts at Aigues-Mortes painting consist of a wide visible rampart, water, and clouds. The brushstroke of the work is perfect that no mistake can be spotted. On the ground, he used broad and vigorous brushstrokes to express the shore of the sea, and he included some plants. The painting was done during midday when the sun was bright to show the beauty of the historic town. The sky is bright blue, which helps to express the white colors of the clouds. Houses are seen at the end side of the picture, which adds life to the painting.

Bazille used smooth colours to paint the houses that they look perfect, and nothing is moving in the artwork. The dimension of the painting is 60 x 100 cm, and when it is framed, the size is 78.7 x 116.2 x 7 cm. The medium of the art is oil on canvas. Bazille did the painting to showcase the historical side of Aigues-Mortes, which is a commune in France. He brought a new idea to the art industry with this painting as it was his first painting that was in the impressionism style. The ink used in the art is of high-quality that it helps to bring out the painting to life.

Growing up, Frederic Bazille was inspired by the works of Eugène Delacroix. He improved his skills when he moved to Paris to continue with his medical studies. Bazille interacted with many artists who helped him come up with creative ideas. The Western Ramparts at Aigues-Mortes painting was an artwork that Bazille did to change the art industry. He wanted to use his painting skills to show love to his native land. Any person can tell the history of the commune by simply looking at the painting. The Western Ramparts at Aigues-Mortes can be found at National Gallery of Art Washington, D.C., USA, and is also available for sale at most online stores.