Artwork
Paris Almanac, 1897: Decorative Border, Summer
Paris Almanac, 1897: Decorative Border, Summer is a print by the Impressionist artist Auguste Lepère. It dates from 1897 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Auguste Louis Lepère's *Paris Almanac, 1897: Decorative Border, Summer* is a wood engraving print from 1897, part of a seasonal series for the Paris Almanac. Characterized by a black-and-white decorative border with a blank central space, it showcases Lepère's proficiency in revived European wood engraving techniques of the late 19th century.
Subject & Meaning
The border features vignettes of everyday summer scenes: a child grasping flowers, a fruit basket, a woman with an infant, and figures beside a boat. These motifs evoke a serene, idyllic portrayal of the season, highlighted by the French word 'ETE' (Summer) at the top.
Technique & Style
Lepère employed sharp, detailed shapes and swirling lines, contrasting black figures against a white background to create visual depth, akin to chiaroscuro effects that leverage light and shadow for dramatic emphasis.
History & Provenance
Created in 1897 for the Paris Almanac's seasonal series, this work exemplifies Lepère's role in the European wood engraving revival. Specific provenance details are not provided in the available information.
Context
This print reflects the decorative arts trends of its time, blending functional design (as part of an almanac) with artistic expression, typical of late 19th-century European printmaking.
Legacy
While specific legacy details of this piece are not highlighted, it contributes to Lepère's broader impact on European wood engraving's resurgence in the late 19th century.
Artist & collection
Artist
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.
