Artwork

Combat contre la Neige, Quai aux Fleurs

Combat contre la Neige, Quai aux Fleurs, by Auguste Lepère, 1890
Combat contre la Neige, Quai aux Fleurs, by Auguste Lepère, 1890

Combat contre la Neige, Quai aux Fleurs is a print by the Impressionist artist Auguste Lepère. It dates from 1890 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Combat contre la Neige, Quai aux Fleurs is an 1890 print by French artist Auguste Louis Lepère, renowned for his role in reviving European wood engraving. The piece is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a chaotic winter scene on Quai aux Fleurs, capturing the struggles of people and animals amidst deep snow, mud, and a turbulent sky. The emphasis is on conveying the urgency and difficulty of everyday life in harsh weather conditions.

Technique & Style

Lepère employed quick, sketchy lines to evoke movement and urgency, eschewing smooth details for a realistic portrayal of disorder. This approach aligns with Realist principles, prioritizing the honest depiction of mundane struggles.

History & Provenance

Created in 1890, the work is now held in the permanent collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art, testifying to its significance within Lepère's oeuvre and the broader context of late 19th-century European printmaking.

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.