Artwork

Le Petit Jour

Le Petit Jour, by Nicolas Delaunay, ink, 1779
Le Petit Jour, by Nicolas Delaunay, ink, 1779

Le Petit Jour is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Nicolas Delaunay. It dates from 1779 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Le Petit Jour is a print created by Nicolas Delaunay in 1779 using etching and engraving techniques.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts an intimate scene of three figures in a lavish, dimly lit interior. The title suggests a private or clandestine moment, potentially at dawn or in secret. The relaxed atmosphere and detailed rendering of textures and shadows contribute to the scene's sense of quietude.

Technique & Style

Delaunay employed etching and engraving to achieve a high level of detail and depth in the print. The use of shading creates a convincing illusion of three-dimensional space and realistic fabrics.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Nicolas Delaunay

Artist

Nicolas Delaunay

Nicolas Delaunay (1739–1792) was a French artist, born 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.