Monet in Giverny: Before the Water Lilies, 1883–1890

Discover the untold story of Monet’s early masterpieces—how the landscapes and light of Giverny shaped one of history’s greatest artists.

This richly illustrated book sheds light on a previously underexplored chapter of Monet’s life and career―the formative years spent discovering and capturing the beauty of Giverny, and his home there, leading up to his signature water lily studies. Long before his own garden bloomed, the surrounding fields, hills, trees, light, and villages he encountered as he explored the region captivated him. Far from isolated, Monet became ever more connected to the world of art, enriching his energy and imagination. This volume reveals the conditions that shaped one of the most prolific artists of all time as Monet trained his eye en plein air. During these formative years, he produce series of paintings of poppies, poplars, meadows and hills, river banks―all part of a landscape shaped by rain and mist, sunlight and shifting skies. Published in collaboration with the Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny, this volume encompasses over sixty works in dazzling color and detail, providing fresh insights and untold perspectives, retracing the steps that led to Monet’s status as a global cultural icon. The wide and thematic selection of works includes some little-known treasures and illustrates the development of the master painter’s talent.

About the Author

Cyrille Sciama is chief heritage curator and director of the Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny.

Marie Delbarre is a research assistant at the Musée d'Orsay.