Artwork

Social Triumph (Le Triomphe mondain)

Social Triumph (Le Triomphe mondain), by Paul-Albert Besnard, ink, 1886
Social Triumph (Le Triomphe mondain), by Paul-Albert Besnard, ink, 1886

Social Triumph (Le Triomphe mondain) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Paul-Albert Besnard. It dates from 1886 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Social Triumph (Le Triomphe mondain) is a print by Albert Besnard, created around 1886 using etching, aquatint, and printed tone on laid Japan paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a crowded room scene centered on a woman in a formal gown, surrounded by suited men. The atmosphere is one of celebration or social gathering, with the woman exuding confidence and poise.

Technique & Style

The work combines etching, aquatint, and printed tone, techniques that allow for nuanced tonal variations and textures. While often associated with Impressionism, the print's style is more closely tied to the printmaking traditions of the late 19th century.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paul-Albert Besnard

Artist

Paul-Albert Besnard

Paul-Albert Besnard (1849–1934) was a French artist, born in 7th arrondissement of Paris.

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