Paris, Canal à la Bastille depicts the infamous location of the Bastille stronghold, which was attacked on July 14, 1789 and initiated the French Revolution. In the background of the work stands the Colonne de Juillet, commemorating the 504 victims of the 1830 revolution. Along the banks of the canal, visitors stroll along the promenade while the boats dock in the inland port. The canal was originally constructed to bring water from the Seine to the Bastille, but it is now a marina surrounded by terraces and gardens. The vibrant red and orange hues of the trees contrast with the blue-green color of the water, illuminating the vivacity of the entire scene.