Setting Sun by Paul Signac

Setting Sun (1891) showcases Paul Signac's mastery of the pointillist technique with its vibrant depiction of a coastal sunset. Created during Signac's mature period following his move to Saint-Tropez, the painting captures the Mediterranean coast with a harmonious arrangement of complementary colors. Using small, precise dots of pure unmixed pigment, Signac creates the optical effect of brilliant light reflecting across the water's surface. The scene is imbued with tranquility as the sun descends toward the horizon, casting golden hues across the sea and shoreline. Rather than representing a specific location, the painting expresses the emotional and atmospheric qualities of the coastal landscape at sunset through Signac's scientific approach to color theory.

Medium: Oil on canvas • Movement: Neo-Impressionism/Pointillism • Size: 25.6" x 31.9" (65cm x 81cm) • Location: Musée d'Orsay, Paris

Paul Signac (1863-1935) was a French Neo-Impressionist painter who, alongside Georges Seurat, developed the pointillist technique. Following his meeting with Seurat in 1884, Signac abandoned the short brushstrokes of Impressionism in favor of small, distinct dots of color. After Seurat's early death in 1891, Signac became the primary advocate for pointillism and color theory. An avid sailor, Signac found inspiration in coastal scenes and harbors throughout France. In the later part of his career, his style evolved toward a broader, more mosaic-like approach. Beyond his artistic contributions, Signac was politically engaged as an anarchist and wrote important theoretical works on color. His vibrant palette and scientific approach to color influenced the Fauves and subsequent modern art movements.

Panel Print
These beautifully detailed panel prints feature a durable matte surface which minimizes reflections. They are printed directly onto a smooth bright white 1/4" panel with a dark gray edge, and then mounted to a hidden frame. This frame makes the print appear to float off the wall providing a clean modern look. They are easy to hang.