Artwork
Oies, Cygnes, herons
Oies, Cygnes, herons 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, Cygnes, herons is a lithograph created by Karl Bodmer in 1851. This print exemplifies the artist's affinity for natural subjects, deviating from his more common river and landscape themes.
Subject & Meaning
The work features four distinct scenes of waterfowl: geese, swans, and herons, in varied settings. These depictions convey a sense of serenity, capturing peaceful moments in nature.
Technique & Style
Rendered in a palette of soft earth tones and vibrant bird plumage, the lithograph's multi-scene composition and color choices reflect Bodmer's detailed approach, aligning with Romantic-era aesthetics.
History & Provenance
Created in 1851 by Swiss-French artist Karl Bodmer, trained in Switzerland and active in France. Specific provenance details are not provided.
Context
While Bodmer is known for Rhine, Mosel, and Lahn river and landscape prints, Oies, Cygnes, herons highlights his engagement with natural history subjects, a lesser-emphasized aspect of his oeuvre.
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.
