Artwork
Meditation (La meditation)
Meditation (La meditation) 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
Meditation (La meditation) is a 1874 print by Alphonse Legros, a French artist who later worked in Britain. It is executed in etching and drypoint techniques.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts two figures in a somber landscape, one seated with bowed head, the other standing with clasped hands. The dark, textured background creates a sense of isolation and contemplation.
Technique & Style
Legros employed dense cross-hatching to achieve deep shadows and a rugged atmosphere, mirroring the mood of the figures. The use of drypoint added to the textured, intense quality of the image.
History & Provenance
Legros created this work in 1874, a period when he was contributing to the British etching revival, having relocated to London in 1863.
Artist & collection
Artist
Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation: ; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.
Old Woman Seated (La vieille femme assise)
Seated Beggar (Mendiant assis)
Evening at the Window
Sleeping Beggar (Mendiant endormi)
Poor Man (Pauvre homme)
Old Woman Seated (La vieille femme assise)
Beggar with Crutches
Convalescent (Le convalescent)
Thinker (Le penseur)
Bust of an Old Man in Profile, Facing Right
Old Man with a Long Beard and Skullcap, Leaning Forward
Meditation (La meditation)