Artwork
Large Spaniard (Le grand Espagnol)
Large Spaniard (Le grand Espagnol) 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
Large Spaniard (Le grand Espagnol) is an etching created by Alphonse Legros in 1874. Legros was a versatile artist who worked in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and medallic art.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a serious-looking older man, likely a character study, with a wrinkled face and dark coat. The artist's use of expressive lines conveys the subject's texture and folds, suggesting a focus on capturing the individual's character.
Technique & Style
The etching features quick, sketchy lines that suggest the folds of the subject's jacket and the texture of his hair. The warm, aged tone of the paper adds to the overall effect, characteristic of etching techniques popular in the 19th century.
History & Provenance
Alphonse Legros, a French-born artist, settled in London in 1863 and later became a British citizen. He played a significant role in reviving etching in Britain through his teaching.
Artist & collection
Artist
Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation: ; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.
