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Claude Monet: Paintings, Water Lilies, the Home and Garden of the Great Artist

Claude Monet: Paintings, Water Lilies, the Home and Garden of the Great Artist

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The water lilies that became the symbol of Claude Monet's work grew in his garden in Giverny. This picturesque corner became a source of inspiration for the artist, who captured the beauty of water lilies in his paintings. Giverny today attracts tourists wishing to see the famous flowers that have become an integral part of Impressionism and Monet's legacy.

For 43 of his 86 years, from 1883 to 1926, the famous landscape artist spent time in a small village. At first, he rented housing for his family and creative plein air paintings, then bought a house and created a garden, after which he acquired neighboring land to build a pond with water lilies and a Japanese bridge. In this picturesque setting, the artist faces a serious challenge—loss of vision—which leads to a change in his painting style. He shifts from impressionism to an almost expressionistic style, reflecting his desire to adapt to new conditions and continue creating.

The central location in the life of the famous artist plays a key role in his creative path and inspiration. This space not only reflects his personal experiences but also serves as a source of ideas for his works. The importance of this location lies in the fact that it is here that the artist spends time in reflection, creates his masterpieces, and finds harmony with the world around him. This could be his studio, his home, or even a corner of nature where he feels a connection with art. Understanding the significance of this place helps us better appreciate the artist's work and his contribution to cultural heritage.

But the public grumbles

In 1927, after the death of Claude Monet, an exhibition of his gift to France – large-scale canvases known as "Water Lilies of the Orangerie" – was organized in Paris. These works of art were housed in specially reconstructed greenhouses of the Tuileries Garden at the initiative of Georges Clemenceau, a close friend of the artist. "Water Lilies" became a symbol of Impressionism and attract the attention of tourists and art historians from all over the world, emphasizing the significance of Monet's legacy in the history of art.

The gallery, located in greenery and along the Seine, is a natural continuation of the hymn to nature created by the famous Impressionist. The oval halls immerse visitors in a garden atmosphere, allowing them to enjoy views of the water's surface, reflecting clouds and pink and white water lilies. This unique space perfectly blends art and nature, creating a harmony that attracts many visitors. The artist intended the tranquility and beauty to inspire the French and bring them peace after the horrors of war and the difficult years of reconstruction. These feelings serve as an important source of inner peace and emotional stability, essential for the rebuilding of society. In the context of historical events, values ​​such as harmony and aesthetics become especially significant, helping people cope with the consequences of conflicts and find joy in life.

Claude Monet, "Clear Morning with the Willows." Between 1914 and 1926. These are three canvases mounted on the wall, 200 cm high and 1275 cm long. Image: Musée de l’Orangerie / RMN-Grand Palais / Patrice Schmidt.
The Oval Room with Claude Monet's Water Lilies at the Musée de l’Orangerie in Paris. Claude Monet himself coordinated the elliptical halls during the reconstruction of the greenhouses, and he also planned for natural light to fall on the canvases from the same direction as in the original landscape. Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media

Claude Monet created his famous canvases in Giverny during the First World War, grieving the loss of his eldest son, Jean. He donated these paintings to his hometown to celebrate the victory, but asked that they not be exhibited during his lifetime. Perhaps he anticipated how society would perceive his new painting style, which differed from traditional styles. Monet strove for self-expression and sought new forms of conveying light and color, which later became the basis of Impressionism.

In 1927, the public, confronted with new artworks, experienced not only bewilderment but also disappointment. Viewers were shocked by the careless splashes of color and crude brushstrokes, which did not meet their expectations of art. The simplicity of the subject matter on the enormous canvases provoked dissatisfaction and criticism. These works challenged traditional notions of painting, questioning the role of the artist and the meaning of visual art.

Claude Monet, Sunset, between 1914 and 1926, height 200 cm, length 600 cm. Exhibited at the Musée de l'Orangerie in Paris. Here, an explosion of colors on a sunlit pond; In the center of the panel is a reflection of the sunset sky – lilac-yellow. Two contrasting spots enhance each other’s saturation; on the sides is a dark reflection of the treetops, in whose shadows we can see the leaves of the water lilies. Image: Musée de l’Orangerie / RMN-Grand Palais / Patrice Schmidt

In the 1910s and 1920s, Claude Monet’s eyesight deteriorated, which affected his creative process. During this period, the artist began using large brushes and working on meter-long canvases, which allowed him to emphasize three-dimensional objects and blurred reflections. He began to use a cool color scheme, which gave his works a special atmosphere. Despite his rich palette and bold brushstrokes, as well as his ability to convey the play of light almost from memory, his work was appreciated by only a few contemporaries.

More than 50 years have passed since the first Impressionist exhibition, and their paintings are now successfully and expensively sold on the art market. However, this latest experiment in painting has once again come under fire, despite the respect shown to the recently deceased artist. Impressionism continues to generate controversy and discussion, emphasizing its importance and influence on modern art.

Claude Monet, detail of the panel with water lilies in the Orangerie Museum, Paris Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media

The artist's son Michel realized, His legacy, consisting of more than 100 of Claude Monet's late large-scale canvases depicting nymphs and flowers, was under threat. National museums did not acquire any of his works that were put up for sale. As a result, he decided not to sell the paintings to collectors or bequeath them to the state, but to donate his works after his death to the Musée Marmottan, located in a mansion on the outskirts of Paris, near the Bois de Boulogne. This decision underscores his desire to preserve Monet's legacy for future generations and ensure access to his work by art lovers.

The Musée Marmottan-Monet arose from the private collection of medieval art and French paintings of the first half of the 19th century, assembled by the Marmottan family. The youngest heir, having no children, donated his collection, as well as the mansion located near the Bois de Boulogne, to the Academy of Fine Arts. Subsequently, after acquiring the collection of Claude Monet's works, the museum began to develop as an important center of Impressionism. The Musée Marmottan-Monet attracts many visitors interested not only in Impressionism but also in art history in general, making it a significant cultural landmark in Paris.

In 1966, the museum's collection was expanded to include more than 100 works by Claude Monet, including the famous painting "Impression. Sunrise," which gave its name to the entire artistic movement. To house the new exhibits, a circular building was constructed, housing the ensemble of large paintings "Water Lilies." The architectural form of the hall harmoniously follows the contours of the leaves, creating a unique atmosphere for perceiving the master's work.

The Round Hall with Claude Monet's Water Lilies at the Musée Marmottan-Monet in Paris. General view and detail of the painting Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media

At the Musée Marmottan-Monet, students actively discuss Impressionist techniques with their teachers. This place has become a center for the study of Monet's work, where his unique artistic techniques are explored. At the Orangerie, queues form to see the once undervalued oval halls filled with paintings depicting nymphs. These paintings not only attract attention but also become the object of in-depth analysis for both professionals and art lovers.

In 2018, the painting "Water Lilies in Bloom", painted in 1917, was purchased at auction by Christie's for a record $84 million. This event allowed the work of art to take a place in the top three most expensive paintings by the French landscape artist. Known for its unique style and vibrant colors, the painting continues to attract the attention of collectors and art historians, highlighting the artist's significance in the art world.

Claude Monet, Water Lilies in Bloom, circa 1914–1917 The canvas measures 160.3 x 180 cm. Sold for $84,687,500 at Christie's on May 8, 2018, in New York. Image: Christie's

Claude Monet, one of the leading representatives of Impressionism, created many of his late paintings in the 1910s and 1920s, drawing inspiration from his pond in Giverny. This pond became a source of not only aesthetic pleasure for the artist, but also profound creative energy, which is reflected in his works. Monet masterfully conveyed the play of light and shadow, as well as the mutability of nature, which makes his paintings unique and memorable. Giverny and its pond became a symbol of Impressionist art, continuing to inspire artists and art lovers for many years.

Now we move forward to 1883, when the master, traveling by train from the north to the capital, first saw this picturesque area through a window. This moment became a turning point in his life, inspiring him to create new works of art reflecting the beauty of the world around him. Inspired by the landscapes, he began to explore the area, capturing its unique features and atmosphere in his works.

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The Three Ages of William Turner

William Turner, an English artist, is considered one of the greatest masters of landscape in the history of art. His work spans three key periods, each reflecting changes in his technique and perception of the world around him.

The first period, Turner's early works, are characterized by bright colors and detailed landscapes. During this time, the artist sought to convey the beauty of nature and its grandeur. His paintings are full of light and air, which gives them a special liveliness.

The second period is associated with the development of Romanticism. Turner begins to experiment with forms and colors, which leads to the creation of more abstract and emotional works. Dramatic scenes appear in his works, where nature becomes a powerful and often threatening character.

The third period is a mature Turner, who turns to light and atmosphere, creating mesmerizing compositions. His later works are filled with innovative techniques that anticipated Impressionism. Turner uses color and light to convey moods and emotions, making his works truly unique.

Thus, the three ages of William Turner demonstrate the evolution of his artistic vision, as well as his influence on subsequent generations of artists. Turner's work continues to inspire and delight viewers, confirming his status as one of the greatest masters of painting.

Housewarming at Giverny

Normandy, with its picturesque coastal cliffs, beaches, and boats, is a constant source of inspiration for Claude Monet. These silvery, misty landscapes of Le Havre and Etretat are often captured in his canvases. Monet repeatedly returned to the same view, exploring it in different lighting conditions. Although the artist was born in Paris, he spent his childhood in the maritime city of Le Havre, where he sought solitude and inspiration in the provincial landscapes. Normandy became not only the place of his creative growth but also a symbol of his artistic philosophy.

He has a family to house. Renting a townhouse in picturesque Vernon proved impossible. However, in the village of Giverny, located just a few kilometers away, an excellent option for living was found.

Claude Monet, "View of the Church at Vernon", 1883. In the collection of the Yamagata Museum of Art in Japan. Image: Wikimedia Commons.

April 1883. Claude Monet turned 42 years old. Nine years earlier, the first independent Salon of the Impressionists had taken place, where his sketch became the basis for a new artistic style. Monet had already held his solo exhibition, albeit in a small gallery. The artist has a wife (still unofficial) Alice Hoschedé, with whom he has six children, as well as two sons from his first marriage, Jean and Michel. In total, the Monet family has eight children: four boys and four girls, which makes their family quite large.

The master created almost a thousand paintings, and his daily expenses are supported by the art dealer Durand-Ruel, one of the most influential in Paris. Although the paintings are for sale, their price does not yet exceed 1,000 francs. Nevertheless, the patron believed in the artist's talent and provided assistance in organizing his move.

Last year, Giverny's population was 340. After the arrival of the Monet family, the population increased by ten, reaching 350. Giverny, famous for its picturesque landscapes and history, attracts the attention of not only tourists but also artists.

Left to right: Michel (seated), Alice Hoschedé, Claude Monet, Jean-Pierre, Blanche, Jean, Jacques (standing), Marthe (foreground), Germain and Suzanne. Photograph from 1886. Photo: Musée Marmottan Monet / Wikimedia Commons.

Next to the house, a garden is being created, and local residents watch the process with interest. They are perplexed as to why plant flowers when vegetables can be grown on this land. Nevertheless, a small vegetable garden is also beginning to take shape. The combination of flowers and vegetables can be not only a source of beauty but also add variety to the diet.

In an old barn for drying sheaves, the owner creates a studio where he can work in inclement weather. Basically, he prefers plein air. In this studio, he creates several panels depicting bouquets to decorate the Durand-Ruel house. Therefore, the "models" located in his garden play an important role for him.

Giverny first appears on the artist's canvases in 1884. First, haystacks are depicted, then poppies and winter landscapes with snow-covered fields. These elements reflect the artist's unique style and his attention to the variability of nature, which makes his works particularly appealing to art lovers and connoisseurs of painting.

Left: Claude Monet, "Haystack at Giverny", 1884, from the collection of the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts. Right: "Haystack. "Noon", 1884, from the collection of the Pola Museum of Art (Hakone, Japan) Image: Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts / Pola Museum of Art

The garden and flowers in flowerbeds, rather than vases, appear in his paintings in 1887. At first, he is inspired by spring peonies, then clematis, although this infatuation proves short-lived. We see a young girl walking with a bouquet through a garden in Giverny, as well as beauties in white dresses and straw hats, who are calmly floating in a boat nearby. These images personify the beauty of nature and the harmony that the artist strives to capture on canvas. Each work conveys an atmosphere of lightness and freshness, allowing the viewer to immerse themselves in the world of a blooming garden.

Claude Monet, "The Peony Garden," 1887, from the collection of the National Museum of Western Art, TokyoImage: National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo
"Boat at Giverny", 1887, from the collection of the Musée d'Orsay in ParisImage: Musée d'Orsay in Paris

In 1891, the artist became completely captivated by the tall poplars on the banks of the Epta. He repeatedly depicted them from the same point, experimenting with different sunlight and in different seasons, creating at least ten works. Later, between 1892 and 1893, he created his famous series of paintings of Rouen Cathedral. This cathedral, like the vertical poplars, reaches towards the sky and has an intricately carved architecture, making it an ideal subject for artistic exploration.

"Poplars on the banks of the Epta, effect at sunset", "Poplars on the banks of the Epta, evening effect", "Poplars on the banks of the Epta, autumn". All painted in 1891, the paintings are in private collections in the USA and the UK. Image: Wikimedia Commons

Garden: Color Palettes

In 1890, Claude Monet purchased a house and began actively designing the garden. His friends brought him seeds and seedlings, and the artist himself set clear goals for the gardener, striving to create harmonious combinations of plants. As a result, his garden was filled with a variety of flowers and vibrant hues, which became an important part of his artistic inspiration.

Artists often seek inspiration in picturesque landscapes that attract them and begin to create paintings reflecting these views. Claude Monet, a famous impressionist, focused on specific landscapes for a long time, creating many works based on the same motif. His methodical approach to capturing changes in light and atmosphere in nature became the foundation of his work and inspired many subsequent artists.

Left: The central alley of Claude Monet's garden in Giverny. Right: "Alley in Monet's Garden, Giverny" from the Belvedere Gallery in Vienna. Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media / Belvedere Gallery / Wikimedia Commons.

He creates his garden by layering warm yellow next to burgundy, lemon and lilac. Numerous shades of pink are present, and gladioli reach their pointed tips toward the sky. These flowerbeds resemble the palettes from which the artist draws inspiration for his works. The garden becomes a living canvas, where every color and shape harmoniously combines, creating a unique landscape.

In modern times, art curators strive to preserve the original combinations and recreate the landscape based on the master's works. This is important for maintaining historical and cultural value, as well as for transmitting an aesthetic heritage to future generations. A thorough restoration allows for a deeper understanding of the artist's intentions and their impact on the world around us.

Flowerbeds in Claude Monet's garden in Giverny, August 2025 Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media
Flowerbeds in Claude Monet's garden in Giverny, August 2025 Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media

Now Claude Monet's garden and house are open to tourists, offering a unique opportunity to see the world of the great artist. The gardeners who have worked here for many years are convinced that if Monet had lived, he would have continued to renew the flora and introduce new plant varieties. As a result, while following tradition, they also innovate, which is particularly noticeable in the diversity of plant species around the pond. This harmony between classic and modern allows visitors to enjoy a unique atmosphere inspired by the artist's work.

Claude Monet's House and Studio

Monet's House is a unique work of art that can be compared to a painting. This house, located in Giverny, is not only an architectural monument but also a reflection of the creative life of the great artist Claude Monet. Its unusual style and vibrant colors create an atmosphere in which nature and art merge. Visitors can see how the space itself inspired Monet to create his famous paintings, in particular, the works dedicated to his garden and pond with water lilies. Monet's House is not just a place; it is a living museum that preserves the spirit of Impressionism and allows one to understand the depth of the artist's inspiration.

The blue living room creates an atmosphere of comfort and harmony. The graceful shadows cast by the wicker chairs placed by the sunny windows echo the dark lines of Japanese prints, adding depth and sophistication to the interior. The soft yellow of the furniture contrasts beautifully with the white and blue ceramics in the dining room, highlighting their artistic value and creating a stylish unification of the space. This interior not only attracts attention but also provides the perfect backdrop for pleasant gatherings and family gatherings.

Asian art in the second half of the 19th century attracted the attention of both the bourgeoisie and French intellectuals such as Monet, Hugo, and Zola. These artists and writers sought inspiration in the exotic traditions and aesthetics of the East, which contributed to the formation of a new direction in European art. The influence of Asian motifs and techniques became noticeable in painting, literature, and other forms of creativity, confirming the importance of Eastern culture in the context of artistic development of that time.

Left: The dining room of Claude Monet's house in Giverny. Right: Fragment of the blue room Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media

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Japanese interior design is a unique combination of aesthetics, functionality and philosophy. The basis of the Japanese style is minimalism, which creates a feeling of simplicity and harmony. The use of natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and stone gives the space a warm and cozy feel. Japanese interiors emphasize natural light, creating an atmosphere of calm and relaxation. An important aspect of Japanese design is the integration of space with nature. Open floor plans and large windows make the most of the outdoor landscape. Elements such as tatami and shizuka mats are often found in the interior, contributing to a traditional Japanese atmosphere. The color palette in Japanese design typically includes neutral and soft tones, which helps visually expand the space and create a feeling of lightness. Functionality and simplicity are the main principles of Japanese design. Furniture is often multifunctional, and decorative items are minimal, which avoids visual clutter and focuses on the main elements of the interior. The use of traditional Japanese elements, such as paravana or paper screens, helps divide the space and create cozy zones. Incorporating Japanese design into your interior will not only transform the space but also create an atmosphere of calm and tranquility. This approach to interior design is ideal for those who value harmony and style in their home.

The house is a spacious two-story structure with eight living rooms, as well as an attic and a basement. The property includes a woodshed and several outbuildings. The pink plaster walls complement the gray shutters, a characteristic color combination of Normandy. This style would later become popular thanks to Christian Dior. It is interesting that under the artist Monet, the shutters were painted bright green, giving the house even more expressiveness.

Claude Monet's house and garden in Giverny Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media
Claude Monet's house and garden in Giverny Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media

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Fairy Tales and Storytellers: The History of the House of Dior

Founded in 1946 by Christian Dior, the House of Dior has become a symbol of elegance and innovation in the fashion world. Since its inception, Dior has revolutionized womenswear with his "New Look," which emphasized femininity and grace. This collection, which debuted in 1947, changed the face of fashion, reintroducing full skirts and cinched waists. Christian Dior was not only a designer but also a true storyteller, creating magical images. His inspiration came from art, nature, and culture, allowing him to create unique collections that left an indelible mark on the fashion industry. Under his leadership, the Dior brand became known not only for clothing but also for perfumes, accessories, and cosmetics. After Dior's death in 1957, his work was continued by other talented designers such as Yves Saint Laurent and John Galliano, who brought their ideas and style to the Dior tradition. Each new generation of designers has added fresh notes to the brand's legacy, while maintaining its founding principles.

Today, the House of Dior remains at the forefront of global fashion, offering unique collections that inspire and delight. The Dior legend lives on in every product; each collection is a new chapter in history, full of creativity and style. The brand continues to create images that not only reflect modernity, but also shape the future of fashion.

After several years of work, the artist decides to expand his workshop and actively solicits funding for the services of carpenters, masons, and glaziers from Durand-Ruel. At times, he even blackmails him with a possible transfer to the daring art dealer Georges Petit. This situation highlights the tense relationship between the artist and his patron, and also demonstrates the importance of financial support in the creative process.

A large window is created in the northwest wall of Old Riga, which will provide better natural light for the artist's workspace. This improvement will not only increase comfort, but also inspire creativity thanks to more light.

Left: living room-studio of Claude Monet's house in Giverny. Right: Claude Monet in his home. Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media / Claude Monet Giverny.

Claude Monet actively participated in plein air expeditions, traveling from Giverny to various corners of Europe. He visited Italy in 1884, Rouen in 1891-1892, Norway in 1895, London from 1899 to 1901, Spain in 1904, Venice in 1908, and explored the Normandy coast. In his letters to Alice, he expressed impatience to return home to tend to the garden with Baby and Mimi. These travels and hobbies reflect his desire to seek new experiences and inspiration for his work.

A Pond Where the Muses Live

Business is going well: the artist actively participates in international exhibitions, and his paintings sell with great success. His financial situation allows him to realize his idea in 1893 – to create his own pond in a marshy section of the Epta River, located across the road from his house. However, this process proves difficult. Some local residents object, preventing the organization of a diversion for the stream that is supposed to fill and replenish the artificial reservoir. They express concerns: "He will release poison into the stream, and we will have to water the cattle with this water." This conflict highlights the importance of the interaction between art and nature, as well as local communities, in the process of creating a unique landscape.

The landscape artist, relying on his authority, sends a letter to the prefect: "I am pleased to inform you that the cultivation of the aforementioned aquatic plants will become the basis for my paintings. In this pond, I use exclusively harmless species—water lilies, reeds, and several varieties of irises that grow naturally along the banks of our river. Therefore, the question of poisoning river water is groundless."

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Claude Monet, the founder of Impressionism, captured the magic of light and color in his paintings. His work marked an important stage in the development of painting, and each piece reflects a unique perception of nature and the world around him. In this article, we will examine ten iconic paintings by Monet that demonstrate his mastery and innovative approach to depicting light and color. Monet's works not only inspire artists but also captivate viewers around the world, becoming an important part of cultural heritage. Each painting is more than just an image, but a story, full of emotion and subtle nuances that are revealed upon closer inspection.

The department owner approved not only the installation of a water intake faucet but also the construction of two bridges. These measures are aimed at improving the infrastructure and ensuring user convenience. The installation of a water intake valve will allow for the efficient management of water resources, while the bridges will provide safe and convenient access to various areas.

View of the Japanese bridge at Claude Monet's pond in Giverny. Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media.

The village is beginning to make a profit. From the influx of arriving artists. Following the example of Claude Monet, painters from Europe and America, such as Paul Cézanne and the Impressionist Marie Cassette, came here. This drew attention to local culture and art, contributing to growing interest in the village as a center of artistic creativity.

The Bodie family converted their grocery store into a 12-room inn. The innkeeper orders canvases, stretchers, brushes, and paints from the city for resale to artists. Some local residents work for the Monet family: they tend to the garden, the kitchen, and sell milk. However, as Monet explains to the prefect, those residents whose services he does not accept create obstacles for him.

View of the village of Giverny from the window of Claude Monet's house Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media

In 1893, the artist entered He officially married Alice Hoschedé after her widowhood. Her first husband, Ernest, was a client and friend of the artist, adding an interesting context to their relationship. Alice, a devout Catholic, refused to seek a divorce, which fueled further rumors and gossip surrounding their bohemian lifestyle. This marriage was an important step, dispelling the rumors and establishing stability in their relationship. Today, the greenery around the pond delights the eye with its many shades and varying heights. It frames and adds aesthetic value to this place: here, tall bamboo stands coexist with large burdock leaves, creating a picturesque mosaic. The shade of the pond provides a cool atmosphere, while the bright sun shines in the garden, attracting butterflies and bees. The water lilies growing in this pond would become an inspiration for the artist Monet and a symbol of impressionism, although this would not happen immediately.

Water lilies in Claude Monet's pond in Giverny Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media
Water lilies in Claude Monet's pond in Giverny Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media

Eye disease: a new manner

In the 1920s, the artist developed cataracts, diagnosed in both eyes back in 1912. This illness inevitably affected his perception and artistic style.

The paintings, created in the 1910s and 1920s and donated by his youngest son to the Musée Marmottan, are distinguished by an expressive style closer to expressionism. They are characterized by large, dynamic, and sometimes impasto brushstrokes, which imbue the works with a special emotionality. Some of these paintings, at first glance, may be perceived as abstract compositions, which emphasizes their modernity and relevance.

Hall with paintings by Claude Monet in the Musée Marmottan-Monet in Paris Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media

С With age, the eye lens becomes more sensitive to short wavelengths of light, especially in the violet spectrum. This may explain the presence of numerous lilac hues in the artists' later works, evident in both the water's surface and in irises and water lilies. This change in light perception is linked to physiological processes occurring in the eye, which influences the color palette and artistic style. By observing blue-violet objects, the artist could perceive more tones and shades, which gave him confidence in his work and encouraged him to choose them. The art of painting a bright, sunlit garden with yellow-pink flowers became inaccessible—the bright light was blinding. However, in the shade of his pond, he still found room for creativity.

Left: Claude Monet, detail from "Daylily", 1914–1917. Right: detail from "Water Lilies and Agapanthus", 1914–1917. From the collection of the Musée Marmottan-Monet in Paris. Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media.

World War I raged from 1914 to 1918, not the best time to travel abroad. The artist, who was 70 years old, managed to create at least 40 canvases depicting water lilies. He paints yellow irises from such a low vantage point that it seems as if he's leaning close to the water, observing the flowers from the level of a frog perched on a lily pad. The long, dark stems, striving to obscure the blue sky, ultimately fail to do so. The artist masterfully conveys the play of light and shadow, creating a unique atmosphere that allows the viewer to immerse themselves in his world.

Left: Claude Monet, "Yellow Irises", 1914–1917, Musée Marmottan-Monet. Right: "Self-Portrait", 1917, Musée d'Orsay. The artist painted his gray beard not as white, but as yellow-green, and his skin as purple-spotted. Image: Musée Marmottan-Monet / Musée d'Orsay / Wikimedia Commons

In the summer of 1922, Claude Monet almost lost his sight—his right eye could only distinguish light and dark. In 1923, the artist decided to undergo three operations. After his vision was restored, he continued his creative work without stopping there. Monet's work, despite his physical limitations, continues to inspire and delight viewers, emphasizing his resilience and dedication to art.

During this period, Claude Monet experienced difficulties due to cataracts, which affected his vision. He noticed that his left eye, affected by this disease, distorted his perception, giving everything a yellow tint. At the same time, his operated right eye allowed him to see the world in bright, saturated blue tones. These changes in color perception had a significant impact on his creativity and artistic style, making his work even more interesting to study in the context of the impact of health on art. Claude Monet experienced profound disappointment with his color perception both before and after the operation. A friend recalled finding the artist dejected in his studio: "It's all over, my poor friend. I can no longer distinguish white from yellow." Journalists who visited Monet to write articles and photograph the famous Impressionist sometimes mentioned his displeasure when someone touched his workstation. Not everyone knew that in the last years of his life, he created paintings from memory, carefully arranging paints on his palette in a specific order so he could easily find the right color for his brush. This approach allowed him to continue creating despite deteriorating eyesight and remain true to the artistic style that made him one of the greatest artists in history.

Claude Monet's late paintings in the circular hall of the Musée Marmottan are distinguished by their lack of clear lines and rich, sickly yellow hues. These works may recall the style of Jackson Pollock, particularly the version of "The Japanese Bridge" painted between 1922 and 1924. These works display Monet's desire to convey emotion and atmosphere, making them unique in his oeuvre. These paintings are a prime example of the transition from Impressionism to more abstract art forms, reflecting changes in the perception of light and color.

Left: Claude Monet, "Japanese Bridge and Pond with Nymphaeums," 1899. Right: "Water Lily Pond: Harmony in Pink," 1900. Image: Philadelphia Museum of Art / Musée d'Orsay / Wikimedia Commons.
Claude Monet, "Japanese Bridge," 1922–24, Musée Marmottan-MonetPhoto: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media
Claude Monet, "Japanese Bridge", 1922-1924, Musée Marmottan-Monet. Detail Photo: Marina Zakusilova for Skillbox Media

The artist died on December 5, 1926, at the age of 86. He was buried in the church cemetery in Giverny, where members of his family, including his wife and eldest son, are also buried. Until 1947, the house and garden were cared for by Blanche Hoschedé, Monet's adopted daughter, who sincerely loved her stepfather and appreciated his work.

Impressionist Claude Monet created a unique artistic legacy, full of vibrant colors and harmony. His paintings are not just visual objects, but true 5D experiences that allow viewers to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of his work. In Monet's works, light, shadow, and color intertwine, creating a sense of reality. In this world, you not only see but also feel the warmth of the sun's rays on your skin, hear the chirping of birds and the buzzing of insects in the garden, and inhale the scent of flowers. Monet's art inspires and conveys all the beauty of life, making his works relevant and appealing to future generations.

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