Artwork

Vous avez la clef, mais il a trouve le serrure

Vous avez la clef, mais il a trouve le serrure, by Jean-Louis Anselin, ink, 1788
Vous avez la clef, mais il a trouve le serrure, by Jean-Louis Anselin, ink, 1788

Vous avez la clef, mais il a trouve le serrure is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Jean-Louis Anselin. It dates from 1788 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Vous avez la clef, mais il a trouve le serrure is an engraving created by Jean-Louis Anselin in 1788.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a dramatic scene in a bedroom, where a man and woman interact intensely. The man, dressed in a suit and hat, holds a chair, while the woman, wearing a long skirt and head covering, gestures towards him.

Technique & Style

The work showcases intricate details characteristic of Romanticism, conveying a sense of drama through its depiction of the scene and the figures' interaction.

History & Provenance

Created in 1788, the engraving is a product of the late 18th century, a period marked by the emergence of Romanticism.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.