Artwork

Craibe Angus

Craibe Angus, by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1878
Craibe Angus, by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1878

Craibe Angus is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Alphonse Legros. It dates from 1878 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Craibe Angus is a drypoint print created by Alphonse Legros in 1878. Born in France, Legros settled in London in 1863 and was instrumental in reviving British printmaking through his teaching and practice in etching and sculpture.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a man's side profile, with his head tilted downward. The subject's wavy hair and beard are rendered in loose, expressive lines, conveying a sense of softness and subtlety.

Technique & Style

Legros employed drypoint to incise the plate, achieving fine, fuzzy marks. This technique allowed for varied line darkness and a natural blend of light and dark areas, producing a soft, shadowy effect reminiscent of pencil on paper.

History & Provenance

Created in 1878, Craibe Angus reflects Legros's contribution to the revival of printmaking in Britain during his time in London. Specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

The work's rough-textured paper and expressive, loose lines situate it within the broader 19th-century revival of interest in printmaking techniques that emphasized direct, handmade qualities.

Legacy

While specific legacy details of Craibe Angus are not provided, the work contributes to Legros's overall impact on British printmaking education and practice during the late 19th century.

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.