Blurring for dramatic effect, and to mimic photographic depth of field effects, were used in the 19th century, but motion blur came later.
Monet
In myth and legend, apples have determined the future of civilisation twice. They’re also some of the most enduring objects to be seen in still life paintings.
Before the 1880s, Whistler’s landscapes were very painterly, painted alla prima, showed views later featured by Impressionists, and even used wooden panels of the same size.
Still life paintings by Claude Monet, Camille Pissarro, Alfred Sisley and Pierre-August Renoir show how Impressionism retained some traditional techniques.
More fascinating paintings of the studios of William Merritt Chase, Jean-Léon Gérôme, Jacek Malczewski, Claude Monet and others.
The exquisite and lucrative floral still lifes of Fantin-Latour, and those painted by artists on the periphery of Impressionism. Plus a surprise from Monet.
In the last quarter of the 19th century, steam trains and ships moved artists around, playing an important role in introducing masters to the south of France.
In the 1870s, Manet and Monet introduced steam trains to the world of art. At the Salon, they were met with ridicule, but became an important theme in Impressionism.
In 1885, it was Monet’s first test of his new method of painting the same motif in different light, weather and seasons. He later used this for his Grainstacks and Rouen Cathedral series.
Between Le Havre and Fécamp on the north coast of France is a spectacular chalk cliff. Here’s the story and its paintings prior to its fame.
The Eclectic Light Company 