View Seen Through a Balcony

Caillebotte used the iron railing of his Parisian balcony to create a scene with a dynamic and modern perspective. The wrought iron curls form a decorative pattern that fills the entire painting. In the distance, we see Boulevard Haussmann with a carriage, an advertising column, and passersby. The pastel tones of the street scene contrast sharply with the dark balcony railing.

The bold composition was inspired by Japanese printmaking, which often featured high vantage points, large areas of colour, and abrupt cropping. This approach influenced artists who were seeking a modern style. Van Gogh, curious about Caillebotte’s work, asked his brother Theo to ‘write and tell me what they’re like.’