Artwork
Small Boat in Peril (Barque en peril)
Small Boat in Peril (Barque en peril) 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, a French artist who later became a British citizen, created 'Small Boat in Peril (Barque en peril)' in 1874 using the drypoint technique.
Subject & Meaning
The print shows a small boat with three occupants being tossed about by turbulent waves, conveying a sense of struggle against the power of nature.
Technique & Style
Legros employed the intaglio technique, using quick, scratchy lines to capture the dynamic movement of wind and spray, characteristic of the Romantic era's emphasis on drama and natural forces.
Context
The work reflects the Romantic era's focus on emotion and the power of nature, a theme explored by many artists of the time.
Artist & collection
Artist
Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation: ; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.
Gust of Wind (Un coup de vent)
Fire in the Hamlet (L'incendie du hameau)
The Fire, 2nd plate (L'incendie)
The Triumph of Death: Death Prepares a Dwelling for the Homeless (Le triomphe de la Mort: Lamort a prepare une demeure a des abandonnees)
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The Triumph of Death: Proclamation (Le triomphe de la mort: La proclamation)
Victims of the Lightning (Victimes de la foudre)
The Tree of Salvation (L'arbe de salut)
The Tree of Salvation (L'arbre de salut)
Tornado (Le typhon)
The Triumph of Death: Departure (Le triomphe de la mort: Le depart)
Boat in Trouble