Artwork

Cliffs Near Cremieu

Cliffs Near Cremieu, by Henri Harpignies, oil, 1847
Cliffs Near Cremieu, by Henri Harpignies, oil, 1847

Cliffs Near Cremieu is an oil painting by the Barbizon school artist Henri Harpignies. It dates from 1847 and is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.

About this work

Overview

Cliffs Near Cremieu is a landscape painting created by Henri Harpignies in 1847. It is an oil-on-canvas work held in the Scottish National Gallery.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a serene landscape featuring a small white house at the base of a rugged cliff, surrounded by trees and a dirt path. The scene showcases the natural scenery near Crémieu, France, exemplifying the Barbizon movement's focus on rural landscapes.

Technique & Style

Rendered in oil paint with visible brushstrokes, the work conveys texture and depth. The dominant colors are muted shades of green, brown, and gray, reflecting Harpignies' naturalistic style, influenced by his studies under Jean-Alexis Achard and Camille Corot.

History & Provenance

Harpignies, associated with the Barbizon school, created this painting early in his career. It is now part of the Scottish National Gallery's collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Henri Harpignies

Artist

Henri Harpignies

Henri-Joseph Harpignies (French pronunciation: ; June 28, 1819 – August 28, 1916) was a French landscape painter of the Barbizon school.