Bridge in Rouen: Pont Corneille

This lithograph captures a bustling scene on the Pont Corneille, a bridge spanning the Seine River in Rouen, France. The print, made in 1896, offers a vivid glimpse into late 19th-century urban life, with horse-drawn carriages and pedestrians moving across the bridge. The composition emphasizes the industrial character of the city, showing smokestacks in the background and the sturdy architecture of the bridge itself. While many of Pissarro's earlier works focused on rural landscapes, this piece reflects a period when he turned his attention to cityscapes, often depicting the modern infrastructure and dynamic energy of urban centers. The medium of lithography allows for a nuanced range of tones, from the deep shadows under the bridge to the lighter, more open sky, creating a sense of atmosphere and depth.