Boating on the River Epte

"Boating on the River Epte" is a captivating 1890 oil painting by the esteemed French Impressionist Claude Monet. This exquisite work is displayed at the São Paulo Museum of Art. Between 1887 and 1890, Monet was enamored with the picturesque River Epte, which flowed near his home in Giverny. This painting is one of several he created during this period.

The piece features Suzanne and Blanche Hoschedé, daughters of Ernest Hoschedé, a banker and significant patron and collector of Monet's works. This series of river scenes also includes notable pieces like "La Barque Rose" "La Barque à Giverny" and "En Barque."

Interestingly, Monet once expressed his frustration in a letter to art critic Geffroy about the difficulty of capturing the water's flowing vegetation. "Boating on the River Epte" stands out because Monet focuses on the water's tactile reality and depth, rather than just its surface reflections. This approach hints at a shift towards a more material focus that Monet would revisit in his later works from 1918 to 1924.

Monet's friendship with the photographer Nadar and his interest in photography influenced the painting's composition. The framing and slightly out-of-focus effect instill a sense of movement, beautifully capturing the boat and the Hoschedé sisters. Additionally, some believe the painting was inspired by Harunobu's engraving, "Woman Collecting Lotus Flowers" adding another layer of artistic connection to this delightful piece.