Artwork
In the Forest of Fontainebleau (Dans la foret de Fontainebleau)
In the Forest of Fontainebleau (Dans la foret de Fontainebleau) 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
In the Forest of Fontainebleau (1874) is an etching and drypoint print by Alphonse Legros, a French artist who contributed significantly to the revival of etching in Britain after his relocation to London in 1863.
Subject & Meaning
The print captures a dense, shaded forest scene, likely inspired by the Fontainebleau Forest. The composition emphasizes the tangled, wild state of nature, with twisted tree branches and roots dominating the space.
Technique & Style
Legros employed sharp lines through etching and drypoint to convey the forest's wildness. The technique, popular in the 19th century, allows for expressive, detailed renderings of natural textures and shadows.
History & Provenance
Created in 1874, the work reflects Legros's influence on British etching during his time in London. Specific provenance details are not provided.
Context
The piece is part of a broader 19th-century artistic interest in capturing the natural world. For deeper understanding of the printmaking process, see related techniques: etching, drypoint, and aquatint.
Artist & collection
Artist
Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation: ; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.
Landscape: Near Chailleux (Paysage: Pres Chailleux)
Salmon Fisher (Le pecheur du saumon)
Landscape (Paysage)
Near the Woods, Veronne (Pres du bois, Veronne)
The House of the Well (La maison du puits)
Old Village (Ville vieille)
Salmon Fisher (Le pecheur du saumon)
Tower on the Horizon of a Lake (Tour a l'horizon d'un lac)
The Salmon Fisherman (Le Pêcheur du Saumon)
Old Chateau (Un vieux chateau)