Saint-Sever, Rouen – Morning, Five OClock. (1898) Camille Pissarro (1830-1903)

The canvas presents a cityscape viewed across a body of water, likely a river or estuary. The composition is dominated by a dense urban skyline, rendered in muted tones of ochre, grey, and brown. Buildings of varying heights are clustered together, their forms somewhat indistinct due to the atmospheric perspective and loose brushwork. A prominent bridge spans the waterway, connecting the foreground to the distant city.
Several vessels populate the waters surface. In the immediate foreground, a steamboat is depicted, its passengers visible as dark figures on deck. Further out, other boats are suggested by their masts and rigging, contributing to a sense of activity and commerce. The river’s surface reflects the diffused light and colors of the sky, creating a shimmering effect that softens the overall scene.
A significant element in the composition is the towering smokestack emitting plumes of dark smoke into the atmosphere. This industrial feature dominates the skyline and serves as a visual marker of the eras rapid technological advancement and its impact on the environment. Other smaller chimneys are also visible, reinforcing this theme.
The light source appears to be diffused, casting a warm glow across the scene. The time indicated in the title – Five O’Clock – suggests an early morning hour, characterized by a soft, hazy atmosphere. This contributes to a sense of quietude and stillness despite the evident industrial activity.
Subtly, the painting conveys a complex interplay between progress and tradition. While the cityscape signifies urban development and economic prosperity, the pervasive smoke hints at potential consequences – pollution, environmental degradation, or perhaps even a loss of natural beauty. The presence of the steamboat suggests transportation and trade, but also implies a disruption of the landscapes original character. The indistinctness of many forms encourages contemplation on the fleeting nature of time and the transformative power of industrialization.