A port in the city! The "Roi des Ciels" (a nickname that Boudin had once received from Corot), offers a view of the Odet River. From the Cape Horn district it is possible to watch the calm water at high tide extending to the cathedral. This urban landscape is animated: walkers on the quays, washerwomen at work and even the ferryman waiting for the customer to pass. The painter offers traditional elements of the representation: balanced composition by trees on the sides of the curve of the quays, depth of the painting carved by the contrast of shadows and lights, play of lines of poles and arrows. . However, a new spirit emerges: the vast summer sky with fleeting atmospheric effects, reflections in the water and the fragmented touch around the boat make Boudin a forerunner of impressionism.

The Saint-Corentin cathedral is one of the favorite subjects of the painters who came to Quimper. This view from Boudin is invaluable because it is the first documenting arrow completed the previous year. Designed by Joseph Bigot, also architect of the museum opened in 1872, they are the symbol of the city.

Boudin chooses the quaint point of view par excellence to give an emblematic image of Quimper. Many artists have followed suit. Even today, this postcard representation still seduces. The scenario has changed little: a comparison to be made on the spot!

© Musée des beaux-arts de Quimper.