The artwork captures the essence of Rouen Cathedral through a soft and ethereal lens; it's almost as if the structure is a mirage, fading in and out of reality. Monet's brushstrokes are both deliberate and spontaneous, creating a sense of movement that brings the stone facade to life. Each stroke appears to dance, merging with his choice of colors to form a gentle interplay of light and shadow. The cathedral is bathed in sunlight, with the façade glowing warmly against a backdrop of cobalt blue sky, invoking feelings of tranquility and awe.

The light plays a pivotal role, highlighting the unique architecture of the cathedral, which appears almost dreamlike in this depiction. As the viewer gazes upon the piece, they can feel the warmth of the sun and the coolness of the air, almost as if they are standing before the majestic structure oneself. This artwork not only captures a moment in time but also exemplifies Monet's ability to infuse a sense of atmosphere into his compositions. In historical terms, this painting reflects the Impressionist movement's shift towards exploring the effects of light and its transient nature, displaying the artist's deep connection to the environment and his innovative approach to painting.