Artwork

Pèlerins d'Emmaüs (Pilgrims at Emmaus)

Pèlerins d'Emmaüs (Pilgrims at Emmaus), by Jean-Louis Forain, graphite, 1912
Pèlerins d'Emmaüs (Pilgrims at Emmaus), by Jean-Louis Forain, graphite, 1912

Pèlerins d'Emmaüs (Pilgrims at Emmaus) is a graphite print by Jean-Louis Forain. It dates from 1912 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Pèlerins d'Emmaüs (Pilgrims at Emmaus) is a 1912 print by French artist Jean-Louis Forain, created using a combination of etching, drypoint, and wash techniques on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a biblical scene: the moment when Jesus reveals himself to two disciples at Emmaus after his resurrection. Forain captures the shock on the disciples' faces, emphasizing the emotional intensity of the encounter.

Technique & Style

Forain's use of etching and drypoint produces a grainy, shadowy effect, while the addition of white and brown wash and graphite creates a sense of depth and texture. The resulting image has a sketch-like quality, conveying a sense of spontaneity and expressive freedom.

Context

Forain was a versatile artist who worked in various media, including painting, printmaking, and drawing. His engagement with printmaking techniques and Impressionist influences is evident in this work, which reflects his experimentation with different artistic approaches.

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.