Artwork

Dans une tranchée, des soldats allemands se rendent

Dans une tranchée, des soldats allemands se rendent, by Auguste Lepère, 1914
Dans une tranchée, des soldats allemands se rendent, by Auguste Lepère, 1914

Dans une tranchée, des soldats allemands se rendent is a drawing by Auguste Lepère. It dates from 1914 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Dans une tranchée, des soldats allemands se rendent is a 1914 drawing by French artist Auguste Louis Lepère, capturing the moment of German soldiers surrendering in a trench during World War I. The work is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing portrays a somber scene of surrender, emphasizing realism and humanity amidst chaos. Lepère's meticulous rendering of uniforms and facial expressions conveys the emotional gravity of the moment.

Technique & Style

While Lepère was renowned for reviving wood engraving, the specific medium of this 1914 work is not specified here. The attention to detail, however, aligns with his meticulous approach, suggesting a thoughtful execution regardless of medium.

History & Provenance

Created in 1914, during World War I, the drawing reflects the contemporaneous wartime context. It is now housed in The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Context

The work's creation during World War I situates it within the broader artistic responses to the conflict, capturing a rare moment of vulnerability and surrender.

Legacy

As part of Lepère's oeuvre, it contributes to his legacy in European printmaking revival, though its specific impact within his body of work or on wartime art discourse is not detailed here.

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.