Artwork

Les Noctambules (The Night Prowlers)

Les Noctambules (The Night Prowlers), by Félix-Hilaire Buhot, ink, 1876
Les Noctambules (The Night Prowlers), by Félix-Hilaire Buhot, ink, 1876

Les Noctambules (The Night Prowlers) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Félix-Hilaire Buhot. It dates from 1876 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Les Noctambules (The Night Prowlers) is a 1876 etching by Félix-Hilaire Buhot, executed in black on beige laid paper using etching and aquatint techniques.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a solitary figure in a long coat and hat, accompanied by dogs, walking down a dark street at night, carrying an umbrella. The scene conveys a sense of gloom and mystery, with the figures emerging from the darkness.

Technique & Style

The street is rendered in a rough, textured manner, with deep grooves and lines etched into the paper, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere. The use of etching and aquatint techniques achieves a dark and moody effect.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Félix-Hilaire Buhot

Artist

Félix-Hilaire Buhot

Félix-Hilaire Buhot (1847–1898) was a French artist, born in Valognes.

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