Artwork
Two White Egrets
Two White Egrets is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Theodoor van Hoijtema. It dates from 1898 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Two White Egrets is a 1898 lithograph on chine collé by Theodoor van Hoijtema, currently part of the National Gallery of Art's collection in Washington.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts two white egrets in close proximity, characterized by their long necks, sharp beaks, and intricately detailed feathers, with one bird exhibiting a slightly raised wing. The serene scene includes subtle background elements of grass, water, and a distant small boat.
Technique & Style
Van Hoijtema employed soft shading techniques to achieve a three-dimensional appearance of the birds' feathers, aligning with the Realist movement's emphasis on detailed realism. The lithograph on chine collé showcases the artist's mastery of capturing texture and depth.
History & Provenance
Created in 1898, the work is now held in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., though specific details of its acquisition history are not provided here.
Artist & collection
