The Port of Rouen

The Port of Rouen is a remarkable 1885 print by Camille Pissarro, demonstrating the artist’s sophisticated exploration of graphic techniques during a period of transition in his style. Created using a combination of etching, aquatint, and drypoint on laid paper, this impression is documented as the second state of two, reflecting Pissarro’s iterative process in crafting his prints. Although best known for his Impressionist paintings, Pissarro dedicated significant attention to graphic arts in the 1880s, applying his interest in light and atmosphere to the linear possibilities of the etching needle. This fine example of his urban observation is held in the renowned collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Pissarro captures the dense atmosphere of a bustling industrial waterfront. The composition is structured by the imposing silhouettes of large, commercial Boats moored along the quayside, their masts defining vertical space against a hazy sky. Along the far bank, tightly packed Houses recede into the distance, providing a stable geometric background that contrasts with the activity of the harbor. Scattered throughout the foreground and mid-ground are numerous small Human Figures, which add scale and energy to the scene, illustrating the daily commerce of the port. The subtle tonal gradations achieved through the aquatint technique effectively convey the unique, moist light filtering over the docks. As a significant work from Pissarro's printmaking career, this piece provides valuable insight into the Impressionist master's engagement with the industrial landscape. Today, high-quality reproductions of these major prints are often accessible through public domain initiatives.