Artwork
Self-Portrait, 4th plate
Self-Portrait, 4th 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
Alphonse Legros produced a self‑portrait in 1874 as a single sheet print combining etching and dry‑point techniques. The work presents a close‑up of the artist’s own face, emphasizing the beard and hair through intricate line work. The plain background isolates the figure, allowing the detailed rendering of facial features to dominate the composition.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts Legros himself, a bearded man with a solemn expression. The intense focus on his hair and beard, rendered in swirling, fine lines, conveys a sense of introspection and personal presence, inviting viewers to consider the artist’s identity and the seriousness of his artistic practice.
Technique & Style
Legros employed both etching and dry‑point on a metal plate. The dry‑point process involved incising delicate scratches that retain a burr, producing rich, velvety lines that give the hair a tactile, three‑dimensional quality. The combination of these methods allows for precise control of line density and tonal variation within the portrait.
History & Provenance
Born in France and naturalised as a British citizen after moving to London in 1863, Legros was a central figure in the British etching revival. The 1874 self‑portrait reflects his dual role as an artist and educator, illustrating the technical skill he promoted among his students and peers.
Context
During the late nineteenth century, printmaking experienced renewed interest in Britain, with artists like Legros championing the medium’s expressive possibilities. This work exemplifies the period’s emphasis on line and texture, aligning with contemporary efforts to elevate etching and dry‑point beyond mere reproduction toward fine art.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation: ; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.
