Artwork

C'est la, que j'ai fini le cure

C'est la, que j'ai fini le cure, by Jean-Louis Forain, ink, 1916
C'est la, que j'ai fini le cure, by Jean-Louis Forain, ink, 1916

C'est la, que j'ai fini le cure is an ink drawing by Jean-Louis Forain. It dates from 1916 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

C'est là, que j'ai fini le cure is a drawing by Jean-Louis Forain, created circa 1916, utilizing pen and brown ink, brown wash, and black crayon on wove paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a man in casual attire, leaning on a cane, intently observing a statue of a soldier with a rifle atop a pedestal. The scene conveys a sense of contemplation, with the subject's gaze directed upward, implying admiration or reflection.

Technique & Style

Forain employed a loose, sketchy technique with expressive scribbles and shading, characteristic of his graphic approach. The predominantly blank background, punctuated by minimal tree lines, focuses attention on the central figures, while the ink and wash create a dynamic, unfinished aesthetic.

History & Provenance

Created during Forain's later period, this work showcases his continued experimentation with Impressionist techniques alongside his distinct drawing style. Though successful in his lifetime, Forain's reputation has waned compared to some peers.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jean-Louis Forain

Artist

Jean-Louis Forain

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.

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