Monet worked on this and other paintings over a period of several years, building up layers of paint as he altered and refined the compositions. This image features softly flowing passages of cloud reflections amid a tranquil surface punctuated by pink lilies. The delicate palette of this painting differentiates it from others and suggests a silvery light suffusing the pond's surface. Since the 1890s Monet had indulged a passion for exploring a single subject in extensive series that chronicle its changing appearance at various times of day and in different kinds of weather.
Gallery label from Monet's Water Lilies, September 13, 2009–April 12, 2010.