The main subject is a towering natural stone arch, an iconic landmark rising prominently from the sea. The structure occupies the majority of the composition, its rugged surface displaying complex textures and light-dappled shadows. Below the arch, the churning water appears in shades of mottled blue and green, suggesting a dynamic, coastal environment.
Rendered in a quintessential Impressionist style, the painting uses thick, visible brushstrokes and a soft, luminous palette. The colours are dominated by earthy ochres, soft creams, and light greys on the cliff face, contrasted against the cool, dappled blues of the ocean and the pale, misty sky. The lighting is diffused, giving the scene a dreamy, atmospheric quality.
This artwork captures a sense of natural majesty and the transient qualities of light on the landscape. The composition is balanced, with the verticality of the cliff contrasted by the horizontal expanse of the sea. It is a classic oil-on-canvas representation of a dramatic geological formation, likely depicting the famous cliff at Étretat.