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 a print created by Alphonse Legros in 1874, combining etching and drypoint techniques. The artist, originally from France, had settled in Britain by this time.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a serene landscape featuring a small wooden bridge spanning a shallow stream, with a thatched-roof house and bare trees on one bank, and a hill with trees on the other. A small boat is visible in the distance, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Legros's characteristic graphic style is evident in the print, with fine, sketchy lines used to render the trees and branches. The artist employed shading to capture the effects of light on the trees and water, creating areas of varying darkness and depth.

History & Provenance

Alphonse Legros was a versatile artist who worked across painting, sculpture, and printmaking. He played a significant role in reviving etching in Britain after moving to London in 1863.

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.