Artwork

Burial in Brittany (L'Enterrement en Bretagne)

Burial in Brittany (L'Enterrement en Bretagne), by Charles Cottet, ink, 1897
Burial in Brittany (L'Enterrement en Bretagne), by Charles Cottet, ink, 1897

Burial in Brittany (L'Enterrement en Bretagne) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Charles Cottet. It dates from 1897 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Burial in Brittany is a 1897 color lithograph on white wove paper by Charles Cottet, a Post-Impressionist artist associated with the Bande noire group.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a somber funeral scene in Brittany, with mourners in dark attire gathered around a coffin in a dimly lit, possibly chapel-like setting. The blurred faces and muted colors convey a mood of quiet sadness.

Technique & Style

Cottet employed thick, rough brushstrokes and a subdued color palette, characteristic of his style and the Bande noire group, to evoke the emotional tone of the scene rather than precise details.

History & Provenance

Charles Cottet, who lived from 1863 to 1925, created this work in 1897, a period when he was closely associated with other artists, including Auguste Rodin.

Context

The print reflects Cottet's focus on Breton traditions and landscapes, aligning with the broader Post-Impressionist interest in regional cultures and expressive representation.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Charles Cottet

Artist

Charles Cottet

Charles Cottet (French pronunciation: ; 12 July 1863 – 20 September 1925) was a French painter, born at Le Puy-en-Velay and died in Paris.

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