Artwork

Siesta in the Country (Sieste dans la capagne)

Siesta in the Country (Sieste dans la capagne), by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1874
Siesta in the Country (Sieste dans la capagne), by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1874

Siesta in the Country (Sieste dans la capagne) 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 created 'Siesta in the Country' in 1874, a print that showcases his skill in etching and drypoint techniques. The work is characteristic of his diverse practice as a painter, sculptor, and printmaker.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a serene rural scene, capturing a moment of rest in a forest glade. Tall, slender trees frame the view, with rocks and bushes on the ground and dappled light filtering through the branches.

Technique & Style

Legros employed drypoint and etching to achieve the print's distinctive rough, textured marks. The resulting image features bold, grainy lines and twisted tree forms, conveying a sense of energy and spontaneity.

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.