Artwork

Woman with a Vase (La femme au vase)

Woman with a Vase (La femme au vase), by Paul-Albert Besnard, ink, 1894
Woman with a Vase (La femme au vase), by Paul-Albert Besnard, ink, 1894

Woman with a Vase (La femme au vase) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Paul-Albert Besnard. It dates from 1894 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Woman with a Vase (La femme au vase) is an etching and aquatint print created by Albert Besnard in 1894, featuring a seated woman in contemplation.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a woman lost in thought, her gaze downward, with a vase beside her. The scene conveys a contemplative and introspective mood, emphasizing the woman's quiet, personal moment.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching and aquatint on laid paper, the work utilizes subtle shading to create depth, particularly in the dark, muted background, which contrasts with the woman's white dress.

History & Provenance

Created in 1894, specific details about the print's provenance and historical context are not provided in the available information.

Context

The piece reflects late 19th-century artistic interests in capturing intimate, everyday moments with psychological depth, characteristic of certain Impressionist and Post-Impressionist themes.

Legacy

While the broader impact of 'Woman with a Vase' on the art world is not detailed here, it exemplifies Besnard's contribution to the etching revival of his time, promoting the medium's expressive capabilities.

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.