Artwork
Le repos du modèle (1ère planche) (The Model's Rest) (first plate)
Le repos du modèle (1ère planche) (The Model's Rest) (first plate) is an ink print by Jean-Louis Forain. It dates from 1909 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Created in 1909, *Le repos du modèle (1ère planche)* is a drypoint print on laid Van Gelder paper by French artist Jean‑Louis Forain.
About this work
Overview
Though primarily known for his paintings and lithographs, Forain produced a modest body of drypoint works during the later stage of his career.
Created in 1909, *Le repos du modèle (1ère planche)* is a drypoint print on laid Van Gelder paper by French artist Jean‑Louis Forain. The work belongs to a series of prints in which Forain examined the everyday life of artists’ studios, focusing on the figure of the model. Though primarily known for his paintings and lithographs, Forain produced a modest body of drypoint works during the later stage of his career.
Subject & Meaning
The image shows a woman reclining on a couch, her body draped in a light, flowing gown. She appears relaxed, eyes lowered, conveying a quiet, private moment of rest. The composition emphasizes intimacy and stillness, reflecting Forain’s interest in the mundane aspects of artistic practice and the human presence within the studio environment.
Technique & Style
Executed with drypoint, the artist incised lines directly into the surface of the paper, producing soft, velvety burrs that give the forms a delicate texture. The laid Van Gelder paper adds a subtle grain that enhances the tonal gradations. Forain’s line work is restrained, favoring gentle contours that reinforce the tranquil mood of the scene.
History & Provenance
The print was issued as the first plate of a series exploring similar studio themes. It was produced during a period when Forain’s reputation was still relatively strong, though his fame has waned since his death. The work has circulated in private collections and occasional exhibition loans, but no single institutional ownership has been recorded publicly.
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.
