Artwork
Souvenir de Bretagne

Souvenir de Bretagne is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Eugène Isabey. It dates from 1832 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Souvenir de Bretagne is a lithograph on wove paper created by French artist Eugène Isabey in 1832, exemplifying his Romantic style through a depiction of a serene, medieval Breton town scene.
Subject & Meaning
The print captures a narrow, stone-built medieval street in Brittany, with a central stream, rocky foreground, and overcast sky. The composition conveys a sense of quiet contemplation, inviting the viewer into a secluded, atmospheric setting.
Technique & Style
Isabey's use of lithography achieves a nuanced play of light and shadow, enhancing the depth and mood of the scene. The looming buildings and long shadows contribute to the overall sense of intimacy and tranquility, characteristic of Romantic-era emphasis on atmosphere.
History & Provenance
Created in 1832, the work reflects Isabey's practice of depicting regional life and landscapes, likely inspired by his travels through Brittany. Specific provenance details are not provided.
Context
Souvenir de Bretagne fits within the broader Romantic movement's fascination with local color, daily life, and evocative landscapes, positioning Isabey among contemporaries exploring similar themes in 19th-century French art.
Legacy
While specific legacy details of *Souvenir de Bretagne* are not outlined, the piece contributes to Isabey's overall reputation as a versatile Romantic artist, known for his contributions to lithography, painting, and watercolor.
Artist & collection
Artist
Eugène Louis Gabriel Isabey (French pronunciation: ; 22 July 1803 – 25 April 1886) was a French painter, lithographer and watercolorist in the Romantic style.

















