Artwork

Old Chateau (Un vieux chateau)

Old Chateau (Un vieux chateau), by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1874
Old Chateau (Un vieux chateau), by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1874

Old Chateau (Un vieux chateau) 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

Old Chateau is an etching created by Alphonse Legros in 1874. The artist, originally from France, had settled in Britain by 1863, where he contributed to a resurgence in the medium.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a serene landscape featuring an aged chateau, possibly of medieval origin, set amidst trees and bushes with a field in the foreground. The scene conveys a peaceful atmosphere, with a light sky dominating the composition.

Technique & Style

Legros employed a range of etching techniques to achieve texture and depth, evident in the detailed rendering of foliage and the textured field. The work exemplifies Romanticism, a style characterized by an emphasis on emotion and imagination.

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.