Artwork

Le Peril Anarchiste

Le Peril Anarchiste, by Jean-Louis Forain, ink, 1897
Le Peril Anarchiste, by Jean-Louis Forain, ink, 1897

Le Peril Anarchiste is an ink drawing by the Impressionist artist Jean-Louis Forain. It dates from 1897 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Le Peril Anarchiste is a drawing created by Jean-Louis Forain around 1897 using pen, black ink, and watercolor on wove paper. It is a characteristic example of the artist's work in a mixed media format.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a domestic scene: a man in a long coat converses with a woman in a long dress while holding a child. The title Le Peril Anarchiste, meaning 'The Anarchist Danger,' suggests the conversation may be related to the political tensions of the time, possibly referencing the fear of anarchist revolution.

Technique & Style

Forain's loose lines and soft colors convey a sense of spontaneity, reflecting his sketchy style. The use of pen and black ink with watercolor on wove paper showcases his versatility across different media.

Context

The artwork is a product of late 19th-century France, a period marked by significant social and political change. Forain's engagement with the visual culture of this era is evident in his depiction of everyday scenes and his exploration of contemporary themes.

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.