Artwork

Bridge at the Mill (Le pont du moulin)

Bridge at the Mill (Le pont du moulin), by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1874
Bridge at the Mill (Le pont du moulin), by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1874

Bridge at the Mill (Le pont du moulin) 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

Bridge at the Mill (Le pont du moulin) is an 1874 etching by French-born British artist Alphonse Legros, depicting a serene rural scene of a bridge near a mill.

Subject & Meaning

The print captures a quiet, natural setting: a small bridge spanning water, enveloped by dense, tall trees with intricate, tangled branches, and a partially hidden mill building in the background. The composition conveys a sense of tranquility and isolation.

Technique & Style

Executed in a detailed, tonal etching style characteristic of Legros' work, the piece features scratchy, dark lines that evoke the texture of sharp tool marks on the plate, enhancing the organic, natural atmosphere of the scene.

History & Provenance

Created in 1874, this etching reflects Legros' contribution to the revival of etching in Britain, a movement influenced by his relocation to London in 1863. His multifaceted artistic practice spanned painting, sculpture, and printmaking.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Alphonse Legros

Artist

Alphonse Legros

Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation: ; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.

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