What are some of the most famous paintings by Claude Monet and what makes them stand out?

Claude Monet is one of the most well-known Impressionist painters of the 19th century. His unique style and use of color have made his paintings some of the most recognizable and beloved works of art in history. Here are some of his most famous paintings:

• Water Lilies (1914-1926) - This series of paintings depicts Monet's flower garden at Giverny and is famous for its use of vibrant colors and impressionistic brushstrokes.
• Impression, Sunrise (1872) - This painting gave the Impressionist movement its name and is known for its hazy depiction of the sun rising over a harbor.
• Rouen Cathedral (1894) - Monet painted this famous series of paintings of Rouen Cathedral in various light conditions to explore the effects of light and shadow on the facade of the building.
• The Poppy Field (1873) - This painting features a field of bright red poppies and is a prime example of Monet's use of color to create an emotional response.

What makes Monet's paintings stand out is his use of light and color to capture the essence of a moment. He sought to capture the feeling of a scene rather than a realistic representation, which was a radical departure from traditional painting techniques of the time. Monet's use of loose brushstrokes and his ability to convey the fleeting nature of light and movement make his paintings some of the most celebrated in art history.