Artwork
Von Kluck
Von Kluck 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
Von Kluck is a drawing by Auguste Louis Lepère, a French painter and etcher who played a significant role in reviving wood engraving in Europe.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a man in a military uniform, identified by the signature as Alexander von Kluck, a German military leader during World War I. The contrast between the calm portrait and the turbulent background may allude to the tensions of the time.
Technique & Style
The work showcases Lepère's use of chiaroscuro, with a stark difference between the simple line sketch on the left and the darker, more dynamic right side, featuring swirling lines reminiscent of stormy waves.
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.
Self-Portrait with Portrait of Delacroix
Patrouilleurs
Général Leman
Infanterie russe
Lord Kitchener
Van Hasler
Artillelurs belges
La Dépèche annoncant la mort de l'archiduc
Woman Entering a Fiacre (recto); Right Profile of Man Wearing Tall Hat (verso)
Dêbut de la manoeuvre de la Marne
En 1871
Trois otages assis