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The scene unfolds with a dynamic yet harmonious composition of rowboats indulged in the gentle activity of rowing. Caillebotte employs an engaging viewpoint, positioned slightly above the water, giving the viewer a sensation of floating alongside the skiffs. The water, depicted with rippling blue and green hues, mirrors the sky and foliage, enhancing the sense of serenity and connection between nature and human activity.

The boats, sturdy and deftly rendered in short, quick brushstrokes typical of Impressionism, hold elegantly dressed figures. The reflections and light effects on the water are masterfully manipulated, harnessing the play of light typical of Caillebotte's techniques. The near-transparent quality of the water allows for glimpses of aquatic plant life beneath, adding depth and texture.

A combination of dappled light and shadow enriches the canvas, illuminating parts of the boats and figures while leaving other areas steeped in darker hues. Vibrant greens of the surrounding trees and bushes contrast with the soft blues of the water and sky, creating a balanced yet lively color palette.

Gustave Caillebotte (1848-1894) was a pivotal figure in the Impressionist movement, although his acclaim often lingers in the shadows of contemporaries like Monet and Renoir. A man of considerable wealth, Caillebotte funded and participated in many of the Impressionist exhibitions, which were crucial for the public visibility of the movement.

"Skiffs" embodies Caillebotte's fascination with modern leisure activities, a popular theme among the Impressionists who often depicted the bourgeoisie's enjoyment of recreational pastimes. This painting marks his continued exploration of water scenes, following earlier works such as "Oarsmen Rowing on the Yerres" (1877).

Technically, Caillebotte's precision and usage of perspective often bordered the Impressionist and Realist movements. He seamlessly integrated the fluid brushwork and vibrant coloration of Impressionism with a meticulous attention to detail and structured composition, creating immersive, lifelike scenes.

- Perspective and Composition: Caillebotte's use of plunging perspectives in "Skiffs" invites the viewer into the scene, a technique he employed in other works such as "Paris Street; Rainy Day" (1877).
- Modern Leisure: The choice of subject reflects the era's cultural shifts, where urban dwellers began valuing and accessing leisure amidst industrial progress.
- Artistic Influence and Legacy: Caillebotte's collected works, including those of his Impressionist peers, may have shaped his style. Despite his posthumous simplicity, his legacy has seen a revival in recent decades, with "Skiffs" standing as a significant exemplar of his prowess.

In conclusion, "Skiffs (1877)" not only captures an idyllic riverside moment with great technical skill but also reflects broader social and artistic currents of its time. Caillebotte's art remains an insightful window into the late 19th-century Impressionist landscape, celebrated for its elegance, perspective, and vibrant portrayal of modern life.