Artwork

Entrance to the French Capuchin Convent at Athens

Entrance to the French Capuchin Convent at Athens, by Charles Meryon, 1854
Entrance to the French Capuchin Convent at Athens, by Charles Meryon, 1854

Entrance to the French Capuchin Convent at Athens is a print by the Impressionist artist Charles Meryon. It dates from 1854 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Entrance to the French Capuchin Convent at Athens is a print created by Charles Meryon in 1854. It is one of his etched city views, a body of work that gained recognition in 19th-century France.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts the entrance to a Capuchin convent in Athens, featuring a stone structure with an archway and doorway. Figures are shown in and approaching the entrance, set against a backdrop of carefully rendered stonework.

Technique & Style

Meryon's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and drama, drawing the viewer's eye towards the entrance. The print showcases his attention to detail in the stonework and the subtle play of light on the figures.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Charles Meryon

Artist

Charles Meryon

Charles Meryon (sometimes Méryon, 23 November 1821 – 14 February 1868) was a French artist who worked almost entirely in etching, as he had colour blindness.

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