A new exhibition at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., titled \"Paris 1874: The Impressionist Moment,\" revisits the origins of the Impressionist movement, marking 150 years since its inception. Curated by Mary Morton and Kimberly Jones, alongside two French curators, the exhibition aims to shed light on the complexities and contradictions of this pivotal moment in art history.

The exhibition juxtaposes two significant works from the 1870s: a dramatic historical scene and Claude Monet's \"Harborview at Sunrise,\" which has since become a cornerstone of Impressionist discourse. This contrast highlights the evolving perceptions of art, as the once-celebrated historical painting has faded in significance compared to Monet's work, which now dominates conversations about Impressionism.

The exhibition also explores the duality of the art scene in Paris during this period, featuring the prestigious official salon alongside a lesser-known independent exhibition organized by a group of emerging artists, including Degas, Renoir, and Monet. This independent group, known as the Société Anonyme, sought to create a new artistic identity, despite facing financial struggles and limited sales.

Art critic Sebastian Smee emphasizes the often-overlooked context of trauma surrounding the birth of Impressionism. Just three years prior to the exhibitions, Paris had endured a devastating war and the violent suppression of the Paris Commune, events that deeply affected the artists. Smee notes that while Impressionist works are celebrated for their beauty and light, they also reflect a desire to move past the horrors of recent history.

The exhibition highlights how artists like Berthe Morisot, the only woman in the independent exhibition, channeled their experiences of trauma into their art, focusing on themes of renewal and rejuvenation. Works such as Alfred Sisley's \"Apple Trees in Flower\" symbolize the hope for recovery and growth after a period of darkness.

As the Impressionist movement evolved, it would see seven more exhibitions, gradually gaining recognition. While some artists found success during their lifetimes, many, including Morisot and Sisley, would only be celebrated posthumously. The exhibition serves as a reminder of the resilience of art in the face of adversity and the complex narratives that shape its history.