Artwork
The Reapers
The Reapers is a graphite drawing by Alphonse Legros. It dates from 1907 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Reapers is a 1907 drawing by Alphonse Legros, a French-born artist who later worked in Britain. Created with graphite on prepared paper, it exemplifies Legros's skill across various mediums.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts rural laborers harvesting crops, a figurative and genre subject that reflects Legros's thematic interests. The scene is centered on two bent figures, their forms merging with the surrounding environment.
Technique & Style
Loose, flowing graphite strokes convey a sense of motion, while dark marks against the white paper create shapes and suggest chiaroscuro. The sketchy style and emphasis on movement imply a quick study rather than a finished work.
History & Provenance
Legros settled in London in 1863 and played a significant role in reviving etching in Britain, showcasing his versatility across painting, etching, sculpture, and medallic art.
Artist & collection
Artist
Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation: ; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.
Peasants Carrying Sticks (Paysannes portant des fagots)
Fagot-makers (Les faiseurs de fagots)
Return of the Peasants
Fagot-makers (Les faiseurs de fagots)
Haymakers of Eragny
Fagot-makers (Les faiseurs de fagots)
The Departure
Peasants Carrying Fagots
Hurricane (L'ouragan)
Man Foraging (L'homme au fourrage)
Potato Lifting
The Reapers