#24827 Josep Mompou

The painting presents a coastal scene characterized by a muted palette and a focus on atmospheric effects. Here we observe three small boats resting on a sandy shore, partially submerged in calm water. The composition is dominated by horizontal lines – the shoreline, the horizon line punctuated by distant hills, and the flat expanse of water – creating a sense of tranquility and stability.
The artist employed short, broken brushstrokes to depict the landscape, particularly noticeable in the rendering of the sky and the reflections on the water’s surface. This technique lends a shimmering quality to these elements, suggesting movement and light playing across the scene. The boats themselves are rendered with simpler forms, their dark outlines contrasting against the lighter tones of the sand and water.
In the right foreground, a wooden post supporting a lantern rises vertically, disrupting the horizontal flow of the composition. Its presence introduces an element of human intervention into the natural setting, though it remains understated and does not detract from the overall serenity. The buildings situated along the shoreline are indistinct, appearing as simplified masses rather than detailed structures. They contribute to the sense of distance and reinforce the painting’s focus on the landscape itself.
The subdued color scheme – primarily greens, yellows, blues, and browns – evokes a feeling of quiet contemplation. There is an absence of vibrant hues or dramatic contrasts, which contributes to the overall mood of peacefulness. The light appears soft and diffused, suggesting either early morning or late afternoon.
Subtly, the painting hints at themes of human interaction with nature and the passage of time. The boats suggest a history of maritime activity, while the lantern implies a sense of community and ongoing presence. However, these elements are presented without sentimentality; they exist as integral parts of a larger, timeless landscape. Ultimately, the work conveys an impression of stillness and solitude, inviting the viewer to share in the quiet beauty of this coastal environment.