Surface reflection

Among the mass of water lilies, you can also see the reflection of the willow trees on the surface of the pond.

Japanese influence

The bridge, which Monet designed himself, shows the influence of Japanese art on his work. This is one of 18 canvases of this view of the bridge, painted in differing light conditions.

Afternoon sun

The late afternoon sun casts a shaft of light over the bridge, illuminating the right-hand side in pale green, contrasting with the other side in a darker blue-green.

Contrasting brushstrokes

When you get up close to the painting, you can see how the longer brushstrokes of the reeds provide a contrast to the small daubs of colour of the water lilies.

Hybrid

Monet's water lilies were a hybrid breed, painted in pink, yellow, and white.

Red vs. green

The undersides of the water lilies were painted in a dark red, which is other side of the colour wheel to the green that dominates the painting. This contrast was in keeping with Monet's interest in complementary colours.