Paul Signac – Les Andelys, 1923 02 Sotheby’s

The composition presents a riverine landscape dominated by imposing geological formations and a densely built-up town perched upon them. The artist employed a pointillist technique, evident in the application of discrete brushstrokes that coalesce into larger forms when viewed from a distance. These strokes are predominantly cool in tone – blues, greens, and grays – creating an atmosphere of subdued light and perhaps even a touch of melancholy.
The foreground is occupied by a stretch of water, its surface reflecting the sky and the structures on the opposite bank. Several small boats rest near the shore, adding a sense of human presence to the scene without explicitly depicting individuals. A set of stairs ascends from the riverbank towards the town, suggesting access and connection between the lower terrain and the elevated settlement.
The central focus lies in the towering cliffs that rise abruptly from the water’s edge. These formations are rendered with a meticulous attention to detail, their layered structure and texture conveyed through variations in color and brushstroke direction. The town itself appears as a jumble of buildings, seemingly clinging to the cliff face; its architecture is somewhat indistinct, contributing to an overall impression of organic growth rather than planned design.
The sky occupies a significant portion of the upper register, exhibiting a swirling pattern of clouds that further reinforces the sense of atmospheric depth and movement. The artist’s use of color here – a pale, diffused light – suggests either early morning or late afternoon conditions.
Subtly, there is an interplay between natural grandeur and human intervention. While the landscape asserts its dominance through sheer scale and geological power, the town demonstrates a persistent adaptation to, and integration with, this environment. The painting doesn’t offer a narrative in the traditional sense; instead, it seems to explore themes of place, perspective, and the relationship between humanity and nature. The deliberate fragmentation of forms and the cool color palette contribute to an overall feeling of quiet contemplation rather than exuberant celebration.