Who painted The Flirt (Le flirt)?

The Flirt (Le flirt) was painted by Paul-Albert Besnard in 1886.

Where can I see The Flirt (Le flirt)?

The Flirt (Le flirt) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Flirt (Le flirt)?

The Flirt (Le flirt) is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

The Flirt (Le flirt)

Paul-Albert Besnard , 1886

The Flirt (Le flirt) 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

Albert Besnard’s print The Flirt (Le flirt), an etching on Van Gelder laid paper dating from around 1886, captures a fleeting, intimate encounter.

Albert Besnard’s print The Flirt (Le flirt), an etching on Van Gelder laid paper dating from around 1886, captures a fleeting, intimate encounter. Two figures are positioned near a window; the left figure leans forward with an arm around the companion, while the right figure turns away, head tipped back as if laughing or speaking. Beyond the glass a plain wall and a few indistinct birds complete the composition.

Subject & Meaning

The work suggests a moment of private conversation or playful teasing between the pair, conveyed through their close proximity and the subtle gestures of affection and amusement. The ambiguous exterior—an empty wall punctuated only by distant birds—heightens the focus on the interpersonal exchange, inviting viewers to contemplate the nuances of flirtation and the tension between intimacy and mystery.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching, Besnard employed rapid, sketch‑like lines that emphasize movement and emotional immediacy. The use of Van Gelder laid paper provides a smooth, receptive surface that captures fine details while allowing the ink to retain a soft tonal quality. The composition balances delicate line work with broader washes, creating a sense of depth despite the limited palette.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1886, The Flirt belongs to the period when Besnard was exploring printmaking alongside his more widely known paintings. Though specific ownership records are scarce, the etching has appeared in several catalogues of Besnard’s oeuvre and is held in a number of public and private collections that focus on late‑19th‑century French prints.