Artwork

Saint Jerome, 2nd plate

Saint Jerome, 2nd plate, by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1874
Saint Jerome, 2nd plate, by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1874

Saint Jerome, 2nd plate 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

Saint Jerome, 2nd plate, is an 1874 etching by Alphonse Legros, a French-born artist instrumental in the British etching revival. The work belongs to the religious genre, depicting the revered figure of Saint Jerome.

Subject & Meaning

The etching portrays Saint Jerome in contemplation, alone in a forest, intensely engaged with a book. His bowed head and loosely draped robe convey deep devotion and solitude.

Technique & Style

Legros employed fine etching lines to achieve nuanced shadows and light, leveraging the medium's capabilities to create a richly textured, immersive environment of tangled forest surroundings.

History & Provenance

Created in 1874, this etching reflects Legros's influence as both an artist and educator in the British etching revival. Provenance details are not specified.

Context

As part of the religious genre, Saint Jerome, 2nd plate, taps into traditional themes while showcasing the revival of etching techniques in 19th-century Britain, highlighting Legros's dual role as practitioner and promoter.

Legacy

This work contributes to the broader recognition of Legros's impact on the British etching revival, illustrating the medium's potential for expressive, detailed religious subjects. Its style and technique continue to educate those interested in etching.

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.