Artwork

Le haut d'un battant de porte (Birds Nailed to a Barn Door)

Le haut d'un battant de porte (Birds Nailed to a Barn Door), by Félix Bracquemond, ink, 1852
Le haut d'un battant de porte (Birds Nailed to a Barn Door), by Félix Bracquemond, ink, 1852

Le haut d'un battant de porte (Birds Nailed to a Barn Door) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Félix Bracquemond. It dates from 1852 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Le haut d'un battant de porte (Birds Nailed to a Barn Door) is an etching on laid paper created by Félix Henri Bracquemond in 1852. It is a representative work by a French artist known for his contributions to printmaking and the introduction of Japonisme in France.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts four birds with outstretched wings nailed to a rustic barn door, arranged in a staggered formation on either side of the door's vertical planks. A visible hinge on the right side adds to the scene's simplicity and authenticity.

Technique & Style

Bracquemond's use of shading and texture creates depth and dimensionality, highlighting the intricate details of the birds' feathers and the door's rough-hewn wood. The etching technique allows for a nuanced representation of the subjects, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing texture and atmosphere.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Félix Bracquemond

Artist

Félix Bracquemond

Félix Henri Bracquemond (French pronunciation: ; 22 May 1833 – 29 October 1914) was a French painter, etcher, and printmaker.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.