Artwork
a) Le baiser du drapeau (recto); b) Study of Le baiser du drapeau (verso)
a) Le baiser du drapeau (recto); b) Study of Le baiser du drapeau (verso) is a crayon drawing by Jean-Louis Forain. It dates from 1918 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Le baiser du drapeau is a dual-sided drawing by Jean-Louis Forain, created in 1918. The recto and verso feature a composition of two soldiers interacting with a flag, executed in bold, scratchy black crayon on laid paper.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a poignant moment of two soldiers: one grasping the flagpole firmly, the other pressing his face against the flag, conveying intense emotional connection or reverence. This motif reflects Forain's World War I-era focus on military themes.
Technique & Style
Characterized by quick, rough crayon lines, the sketch prioritizes expressive feeling over detailed rendering, typical of Forain's rapid, emotive drawing style during this period.
History & Provenance
Part of a series by Forain from the same era, this work is dated to 1918. While Forain enjoyed commercial success during his lifetime, his recognition has waned compared to some Impressionist peers.
Context
Created amidst World War I, the piece is contextualized within Forain's broader output of the time, frequently featuring soldiers and flags, reflecting the artist's response to the conflict.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Jean-Louis Forain (French pronunciation: ; 23 October 1852 – 11 July 1931) was a French Impressionist painter and printmaker, working in media including oils, watercolour, pastel, etching and lithograph.
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