Artwork
Les Ours (The Bears)
Les Ours (The Bears) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Karl Bodmer. It dates from 1866 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Les Ours (The Bears) is an 1866 etching in black on chine collé by Swiss-French artist Karl Bodmer, featuring a naturalistic scene of three bears interacting with a forest environment.
Subject & Meaning
The etching showcases Bodmer's fascination with wildlife, depicting three bears in varied postures amidst a detailed forest setting, conveying a sense of quiet dynamism.
Technique & Style
Bodmer employed etching techniques to achieve intricate details, such as textured fur and bark, and utilized shading to add depth and visual interest to the composition.
History & Provenance
Created in 1866, Les Ours reflects Bodmer's established practice of depicting natural subjects, following his earlier work on rivers and landscapes in Germany and subsequent relocation to France.
Artist & collection
Artist
Johann Carl Bodmer (11 February 1809 – 30 October 1893) was a Swiss-French printmaker, etcher, lithographer, zinc engraver, draughtsman, painter, illustrator, and hunter.
