Artwork

Opposite the Inn, Purfleet

Opposite the Inn, Purfleet, by Francis Seymour Haden, ink, 1869
Opposite the Inn, Purfleet, by Francis Seymour Haden, ink, 1869

Opposite the Inn, Purfleet is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Francis Seymour Haden. It dates from 1869 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Next, check out etching to see how artists like this made marks with acid and needles.

This sketch shows a busy river scene with ships, buildings, and a few people. The lines are loose and quick, like hurried notes. The water looks choppy, and the shore has a mix of docks and small boats.

The artist used a scratchy method to make the lines pop—this is called drypoint. The date in the corner says 1869, so it’s from the late 1800s.

Next, check out etching to see how artists like this made marks with acid and needles.

Overview

Opposite the Inn, Purfleet is a print created by Francis Seymour Haden in 1869, showcasing a river scene with a mix of ships, buildings, and people.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a busy riverside with docks, boats, and choppy water, capturing a moment in time with loose, expressive lines.

Technique & Style

Haden employed etching and drypoint techniques on zinc to achieve a scratchy, textured effect, with the drypoint adding depth and visual interest to the image.

History & Provenance

Dated 1869, the print is an example of Haden's work from the late 19th century, a period when etching was a popular medium among artists.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.