Flood at Port-Marly

Mediums: oil, canvas.
Dimension: 50 x 61 сm.
Location: National Gallery of Art, Washington.

A flood that occurred early in the spring of 1872 led Sisley to Port Marly, a small village on the banks of the Seine near Louveciennes, the artist’s homeland. His attention was drawn not to dramatic scenes, but to the rain, clouds and water that flooded the streets. The composition of this picture is traditional. The picture was probably done in one session. Sisley uses a wide range of muted colors and shades, laying thin and flexible strokes in accordance with the details of the landscape.