Artwork

Clap of Thunder [recto]

Clap of Thunder [recto], by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1874
Clap of Thunder [recto], by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1874

Clap of Thunder [recto] is an ink drawing 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

Clap of Thunder is a 1874 drawing by Alphonse Legros, a French-born artist who later worked in Britain. Created with pen and brown ink, brown wash, and graphite on paperboard, it exemplifies Legros's technical skill.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a stormy forest scene with a dark sky, a seated figure, and a large animal. The expressive rendering conveys a sense of turmoil and the insignificance of the human presence.

Technique & Style

Legros employed rapid, gestural lines and wet ink blended with soft washes to capture the dynamic movement of the trees and sky. The resulting texture and tone evoke a wild, untamed atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Legros created this work after relocating to London in 1863, where he contributed to the revival of etching in Britain. His diverse practice encompassed painting, etching, sculpture, and medallic art.

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.