Monet's 'Impression, soleil levant' analyzed in depth ahead of 2026 exhibition
Claude Monet's 1872 painting 'Impression, soleil levant' is examined in detail, revealing its revolutionary technique and historical impact. Painted from a hotel window in Le Havre, the work captures a fleeting sunrise with rapid brushstrokes and a glowing orange-red sun. The painting gave Impressionism its name after critic Louis Leroy mocked it in 1874. An exhibition at MuMa Le Havre from June 5 to September 27, 2026, will feature the masterpiece.
Key facts
- Painted in November 1872 from the Hôtel de l'Amirauté in Le Havre.
- Oil on canvas, 50 x 65 cm, collection of Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris.
- First exhibited on April 15, 1874, at the studio of Félix Nadar, Boulevard des Capucines.
- Critic Louis Leroy coined the term 'Impressionism' in a satirical review for Le Charivari.
- Monet was influenced by William Turner's depictions of light and fog.
- The painting features industrial elements like cranes and factory chimneys.
- Exhibition at MuMa Le Havre runs from June 5 to September 27, 2026.
- The work is considered a manifesto of Impressionism.
Entities
Artists
- Claude Monet
- William Turner
- Félix Nadar
- Louis Leroy
Institutions
- Musée Marmottan Monet
- MuMa Le Havre
- Le Charivari
Locations
- Le Havre
- France
- Paris
- Boulevard des Capucines
- Hôtel de l'Amirauté
- Quai de Southampton