Paul Signac – Les Andelys, 1923 01 Sotheby’s

The composition presents a landscape dominated by a steep, rocky cliff face rising abruptly from a body of water. The artist has rendered this terrain with a deliberate lack of precise detail, favoring instead a mosaic-like application of color and line. A town clusters at the base of the cliffs, its buildings depicted as simplified forms arranged in tiers along the slope. Above the settlement, a structure resembling a church or castle is perched precariously on the highest point, adding a vertical emphasis to the scene.
The palette is predominantly warm – yellows, ochres, and greens – punctuated by cooler blues and purples that define shadows and suggest depth. The brushwork appears loose and spontaneous; short, broken strokes create a shimmering effect across surfaces, particularly noticeable in the depiction of water and foliage. This technique contributes to an overall impression of atmospheric perspective, where distant elements appear softened and less distinct.
The river or waterway occupies a significant portion of the lower register, its surface rendered with horizontal brushstrokes that convey movement and reflection. The artist has used varying shades of green and blue to suggest both the waters color and the interplay of light upon it. A small bridge spans the water in the foreground, providing a point of entry into the scene.
The drawing’s subtexts revolve around themes of human interaction with nature and the passage of time. The town’s placement within such a dramatic geological setting suggests a relationship of adaptation and resilience. The presence of the church or castle atop the cliff implies a historical narrative – a claim to territory, perhaps, or a spiritual aspiration. The loose brushwork and vibrant color scheme evoke a sense of fleeting observation, as if the artist captured an impression rather than striving for photographic realism. There’s a quiet dignity in the depiction; its not celebratory but contemplative, suggesting a respect for the landscapes inherent power and beauty.