Artwork
Banks of the Loire (Bord de la Loire)
Banks of the Loire (Bord de la Loire) is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Alphonse Legros. It dates from 1874 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Banks of the Loire (Bord de la Loire) is a print created by Alphonse Legros in 1874 using etching and drypoint techniques. Legros was a French-born artist who later became a British citizen and played a significant role in promoting etching in Britain.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a serene riverside landscape along the Loire, featuring a winding river, trees, hills, and distant buildings. The composition is framed by trees, creating a sense of depth and perspective, and captures the play of light on the water and surrounding foliage.
Technique & Style
The work is an intaglio print, combining etching and drypoint techniques. The use of these techniques allows for a range of tonal values and textures, contributing to the overall sense of tranquility and calm in the scene.
Context
Legros's work is associated with the broader artistic trends of his time, including the Romanticism movement, which emphasized the beauty and emotional potential of landscapes.
Artist & collection
Artist
Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation: ; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.
