Artwork

Bateau logement

Bateau logement, by Auguste Lepère, 1894
Bateau logement, by Auguste Lepère, 1894

Bateau logement is a print by the Impressionist artist Auguste Lepère. It dates from 1894 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Bateau logement is a 1894 print by French artist Auguste Louis Lepère, a key figure in the European revival of wood engraving. The work is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a humble, everyday scene: a small, weathered boat on land, repurposed as a dwelling, with a person nearby tending to a basket and a chicken. The emphasis is on simple, quiet aspects of daily life.

Technique & Style

Characterized by loose, sketchy lines reminiscent of a quick drawing, the print reflects the informal, observational approach common in late 19th-century French Realism, prioritizing authenticity over ornateness.

History & Provenance

Created in 1894 by Auguste Louis Lepère, the print is now held in the collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art, with no detailed provenance of intermediate ownership provided.

Context

Emerging from the late 19th-century French art scene, Bateau logement aligns with the Realist movement's focus on depicting ordinary life and environments, eschewing romanticization for realism.

Legacy

While specific influences or direct artistic lineage of Bateau logement are not detailed, it contributes to the broader legacy of Lepère's efforts in revitalizing wood engraving in Europe during his time.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Auguste Lepère

Artist

Auguste Lepère

Louis-Auguste Lepère (30 November 1849 – 20 November 1918) was a French painter and etcher. Lepère is also considered a leader in the creative revival of wood engraving in Europe.

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