Art Critique of La Rue Montorqueil a Paris by Claude Monet.

La Rue Montorgueil a Paris by Claude Monet is an oil on canvas painting, made in 1878, meant to symbolize France’s recovery after a defeat in 1870. The painting depicts a crowded street in Paris with French flags hanging off of every windowsill. Monet uses extensive color and movement in his lines and strokes to convey celebration and excitement. The messy strokes of the red, white, and blue paint, which are meant to be French flags, almost blur together in an intentional confusion that gives the feeling of a parade. Additionally, the flags line the streets all point inwards and up the street, thus leading the viewer’s eye deeper into the city and deeper into the parade.

Upon first looking at this painting, I immediately felt the patriotism that is so clearly meant to be conveyed through the numerous flags waving in celebration. This painting makes me feel excited due to the somewhat messy and hectic strokes and lines because my eyes are bombarded with constant movement and color. This work reminds me of the types of celebrations an American may see on the Fourth of July because of the obvious nationalistic pride and celebratory energy that pours from this painting. Overall, Monet succeeded wonderfully in conveying his intention of nationalism and celebration for French victories and in capturing the excitement one may feel in the midst of such a festival or parade.