Artwork
Portrait de Renoir (3e planche) (Portrait of Renoir) (third plate)
Portrait de Renoir (3e planche) (Portrait of Renoir) (third plate) is an ink print by Jean-Louis Forain. It dates from 1905 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Created in 1905, the work is a transfer lithograph executed on wove paper by French artist Jean‑Louis Forain.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1905, the work is a transfer lithograph executed on wove paper by French artist Jean‑Louis Forain. It presents a portrait of fellow Impressionist Pierre‑Auguste Renoir, rendered with a spontaneous, sketch‑like quality that emphasizes immediacy over finish. The image measures a modest size and is characteristic of Forain’s print output during the early twentieth century.
Subject & Meaning
The figure shown is Renoan’s recognizable bearded visage, topped by a dark cap and turned slightly away from the viewer. The turned head and relaxed posture suggest a candid moment rather than a formal commission, offering a glimpse of the painter in an informal, almost private setting.
Technique & Style
Forain employed the transfer lithography process, allowing him to reproduce delicate, fluid lines on the paper’s smooth surface. The drawing relies on loose, rapid strokes that outline the collar, cap and facial features, while the background remains an unadorned light field. This economical handling of line creates a sense of immediacy, akin to a quick study.
History & Provenance
This particular lithograph forms part of his broader printmaking oeuvre, documenting his engagement with fellow artists of the movement.
Jean‑Louis Forain, known for his versatility across oils, watercolors, pastels, etchings and lithographs, enjoyed considerable commercial success in his lifetime, often surpassing his Impressionist peers. This particular lithograph forms part of his broader printmaking oeuvre, documenting his engagement with fellow artists of the movement. Its provenance traces back to early twentieth‑century French print circles, though specific ownership records are limited.
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.
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