Artwork

Parisian Service (Haviland service): Rain (no. 10)

Parisian Service (Haviland service): Rain (no. 10), by Félix Bracquemond, 1875
Parisian Service (Haviland service): Rain (no. 10), by Félix Bracquemond, 1875

Parisian Service (Haviland service): Rain (no. 10) is a print by the Impressionist artist Félix Bracquemond. It dates from 1875 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1875 by French artist Félix Bracquemond, this print titled "Parisian Service (Haviland service): Rain (no. 10)" is part of the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. It forms one element of a series that depicts atmospheric scenes associated with a Haviland porcelain service.

Subject & Meaning

The image presents a quiet countryside vista: distant trees and low shrubs frame a sky softened by rain, while a small gathering of birds occupies the foreground, either perched on branches or standing on the ground. The composition conveys a sense of stillness and the gentle rhythm of a rainy day.

Technique & Style

Bracquemond employs delicate, soft brushstrokes and a restrained palette of muted tones, allowing light and shadow to suggest depth without sharp contrast. The handling of atmospheric effects and the subtle modulation of color align the work with the broader 19th‑century interest in capturing fleeting natural conditions.

History & Provenance

The print was produced as part of a decorative series for the Haviland porcelain manufacturer, intended to accompany a Parisian table service. After its creation, it entered private collections before being acquired by the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it remains on view as an example of Bracquemond’s printmaking for commercial design.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Félix Bracquemond

Artist

Félix Bracquemond

Félix Henri Bracquemond (French pronunciation: ; 22 May 1833 – 29 October 1914) was a French painter, etcher, and printmaker.

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