Artwork
Oies bernacles
Oies bernacles is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Karl Bodmer. It dates from 1851 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Oies bernacles is an etching created by Karl Bodmer in 1851. The print depicts a serene scene of four waterbirds—three geese and one swan—near water, characterized by loose, expressive lines and a soft, fuzzy texture.
Subject & Meaning
The subject of Oies bernacles focuses on the tranquil interaction of waterbirds in a natural setting. The composition may suggest a moment of everyday life, emphasizing observation over narrative depth.
Technique & Style
Bodmer employed a traditional 19th-century etching technique, where ink fills scratched lines on a plate. The loose, hurried strokes and wavy background textures evoke a sense of spontaneity and softness.
History & Provenance
Created in 1851 by Swiss-French artist Karl Bodmer, known for his work in printmaking, illustration, watercolor, lithography, and engraving. Bodmer's career spanned recognition in Germany for riverside and cityscapes before moving 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.
