Artwork
The Suicide (Le Suicide)
The Suicide (Le Suicide) 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
The Suicide (Le Suicide) is an etching by Albert Besnard, created around 1886. It is a print on laid paper, executed in black with plate tone.
Subject & Meaning
The etching depicts a lone figure in dark, loose clothing leaning over a wall with their head in their hands, conveying a sense of despair. A cityscape with buildings and a train or tram is visible in the background, contrasting with the figure's somber mood.
Technique & Style
The scene is rendered through dark lines and shading, creating depth and emotional intensity. The use of etching techniques and plate tone contributes to the overall somber atmosphere.
Context
Although not strictly an Impressionist work, The Suicide was created during a period when Impressionism was influential. Besnard's style, however, diverges from the characteristic Impressionist focus on light and color.
Artist & collection
Artist
Paul-Albert Besnard (1849–1934) was a French artist, born in 7th arrondissement of Paris.
Three Veiled Women (Trois femmes voilées)
La Rue Coulaincourt
Ah, it's true, my poor old man, you would be the first to whom I would have made to miss his bus. "But I'll Miss My Bus" "My Customers Have Never Missed Their Bus"
Model Asleep on the Floor (Le modèle endormi à terre)
Model Asleep on the Floor (Le modèle endormi à terre)
Montmarte
Old Woman Seated (La vieille femme assise)
Back of a Woman (Dos de Femme)
Interieur mit Stehlampe (Interior with Floor Lamp)
Les Noctambules (The Night Prowlers)
The Suicide (Le Suicide)
Sur le lit (On the Bed)