Who painted Le Patre?

Le Patre was painted by Félix-Hilaire Buhot in 1873.

Where can I see Le Patre?

Le Patre is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Le Patre?

Le Patre is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Le Patre

Félix-Hilaire Buhot , 1873

Le Patre is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Félix-Hilaire Buhot. It dates from 1873 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Félix‑Hilaire Buhot’s print Le Patre, executed in 1873, is a monochrome work combining etching and drypoint on Japanese paper. The image presents a narrow, dimly lit alley framed by leafless trees and a brooding sky. A stone archway at the far end emits a faint, solitary glow, drawing the eye toward the interior space.

Subject & Meaning

The composition depicts two figures within the alley: a standing individual peering toward the illuminated archway, and a seated person, supported by a cane, accompanied by a dog. The juxtaposition of darkness and the lone light source creates a mood of quiet contemplation, suggesting themes of solitude and the search for refuge.

Technique & Style

Buhot employed fine, incised lines characteristic of drypoint to render delicate textures and subtle shadows, while the etched areas define the broader architectural forms. The use of Japanese paper contributes a soft, absorbent surface that enhances the tonal gradations, allowing the faint interior illumination to stand out against the surrounding gloom.

History & Provenance

Created in the early 1870s, Le Patre reflects Buhot’s interest in atmospheric urban scenes during a period when French printmakers were exploring the expressive possibilities of combined etching and drypoint. The work remains in private collections, with documented appearances in late‑19th‑century print exhibitions that highlighted the artist’s skill in rendering mood through line and tone.