The Magpie (1868–1869) by Claude Monet

The Magpie (1868–1869) — Claude Monet

Silence in snowlight. Monet’s winter landscape turns a simple gate and fence into poetry—soft drifts, long blue-violet shadows, and a solitary magpie poised against the hush. Minimal means, maximal atmosphere: a calm, luminous classic of early Impressionism.

Why it captivates

• Winter luminosity — radiant whites woven with cool, coloured shadows.

• Elegant restraint — a single bird animates an otherwise quiet scene.

• Brushwork you can feel — feathery strokes for snow, crisp accents for wood and wire.

• Impressionist breakthrough — a masterclass in light, tone, and limited palette.

• Serene statement — tranquil, sophisticated, and beautifully versatile on the wall.

What you’ll see

A snow-laden stone wall and wooden gate, casting long, cool shadows across untouched ground. On the gate, a magpie rests alert; beyond, rooftops, trees, and sky dissolve into winter haze. The scene balances structure and stillness—air, light, and quiet held in perfect equilibrium.

A richer historical frame

Painted in 1868–1869, this work showcases Monet’s early exploration of coloured shadows—the blue and lilac tones that make snow feel alive. Stripped of anecdote, it focuses on light over detail, anticipating the language of Impressionism that would soon reshape modern painting.

Choose your finish

🌟 Heavyweight Paper (160 gsm matte)
Archival-grade, smooth matte stock ideal for framing under glass. Crisp detail, minimal glare.

💎 Laminated (True Encapsulation)
Sealed in 2 × 80-micron gloss laminate, edge-to-edge. Durable, wipe-clean—perfect for busy spaces.

🪵 Laminated + Timber Hang Rails (Ready to hang)
Lacquered natural timber rails with fitted hanging cord; no frame required.
Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed delivery.

🏆 Archival Canvas (395 gsm HP Professional Matte)
Museum-quality texture with pigment-based, fade-resistant inks for gentle gradation and depth.

🪵 Canvas + Timber Hang Rails (Gallery-ready)
As above, supplied with lacquered natural timber rails and hanging cord.
Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed delivery.

Size (W × H)

841 × 548 mm (approx. 33.11 × 21.57 in)

• Orientation: Landscape

• Aspect ratio: ~1.535 : 1

• Nearest standard frame: A1 (594 × 841 mm) — landscape

• Framing tips:

  • Use an A1 frame with a custom mat window cut to ~837 × 544 mm (2–3 mm overlap).

  • Contemporary: float-mount in an A1 frame to reveal the sheet edge and create a clean shadow gap.

Custom sizing: Available on request (alternative aspect ratios or added white border).

Specifications

Who it’s for

• Impressionism admirers & winter-scene lovers

• Designers & stylists seeking quiet, light-led elegance

• Collectors of Monet and 19th-century landscape

• Gift-givers celebrating new homes and calm spaces

Our Commitment

Every print is produced locally in Australia on premium substrates with careful colour management, then checked and packed by hand so it arrives ready to impress. From studio to wall, we stand behind the craftsmanship and historical integrity of your piece.

Let Monet’s hush of winter brighten your space—order your Magpie print today.