Artwork

Le repos en Egypte (The Rest in Egypt)

Le repos en Egypte (The Rest in Egypt), by Jean-Louis Forain, ink, 1909
Le repos en Egypte (The Rest in Egypt), by Jean-Louis Forain, ink, 1909

Le repos en Egypte (The Rest in Egypt) is an ink print by Jean-Louis Forain. It dates from 1909 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Le repos en Egypte (The Rest in Egypt) is a 1909 print by French artist Jean-Louis Forain, created using etching and drypoint techniques on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts the Holy Family resting during their flight into Egypt, a biblical scene. Three figures are shown sitting on the ground, with one woman holding a baby and another leaning in, accompanied by a nearby basket.

Technique & Style

Forain's use of etching and drypoint results in a loose, sketchy style with a grainy texture. The lines are rapid and unrefined, giving the scene a spontaneous, unpolished feel.

Context

Forain was a versatile artist known for his work in various mediums, including oils, watercolor, pastel, and printmaking. Although commercially successful during his lifetime, his recognition has waned relative to some of his Impressionist contemporaries.

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.