Artwork

Wrapper for "Voyage en bateau"

Wrapper for "Voyage en bateau", by Charles François Daubigny, ink, 1862
Wrapper for "Voyage en bateau", by Charles François Daubigny, ink, 1862

Wrapper for "Voyage en bateau" is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Charles François Daubigny. It dates from 1862 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

The text "Voyage en bateau" is written above the boat, with "Poques à l'Eau Forte" and "PAR DAUBIGNY 1862" below.

The image shows a piece of paper with a rectangular design in the center. The design features a curved line of grasses and reeds, with a small boat in the water below. The text "Voyage en bateau" is written above the boat, with "Poques à l'Eau Forte" and "PAR DAUBIGNY 1862" below.

The design is surrounded by a subtle border, with some faint lines and marks visible on the paper. The overall effect is one of simplicity and elegance, with the focus on the central design.

This etching is a great example of the Impressionism movement.

Overview

Wrapper for 'Voyage en bateau' is an 1862 etching on blue wove paper by Charles-François Daubigny, a French artist bridging the Barbizon school and early Impressionism. The print features a serene design centered on a small boat, surrounded by natural elements and decorative text.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a tranquil scene with a boat, grasses, and reeds, reflecting Daubigny's characteristic focus on the natural world. The inclusion of 'Voyage en bateau' (Boat Trip) in the design suggests a thematic emphasis on leisure or journeying within a serene environment.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching, a medium Daubigny frequently used, the work showcases his skill in printmaking. The simple, elegant composition and subtle border are typical of his style, emphasizing clarity and the expressive use of line.

History & Provenance

Created in 1862, the etching bears the inscription 'PAR DAUBIGNY 1862' and 'Poques à l'Eau Forte', indicating its production details. While specific provenance details are not provided, it is attributed to Daubigny's active period in innovative print techniques.

Context

This work contextualizes Daubigny's influence on the transition from Barbizon's emphasis on naturalism to the emerging Impressionist movement, highlighting his role in popularizing etching as an expressive medium.

Legacy

As an example of Daubigny's print work, 'Wrapper for Voyage en bateau' contributes to the understanding of 19th-century French printmaking innovations and the artistic bridge between Barbizon and Impressionism.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Charles François Daubigny

Artist

Charles François Daubigny

Charles-François Daubigny ( DOH-bin-yee, US: DOH-been-YEE, doh-BEEN-yee, French: ; 15 February 1817 – 19 February 1878) was a French painter, one of the members of the Barbizon school, and is considered an important precursor of…

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