Artwork

Val Prinsep, R.A.

Val Prinsep, R.A., by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1874
Val Prinsep, R.A., by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1874

Val Prinsep, R.A. 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. Val Prinsep, R.

About this work

Overview

Val Prinsep, R.A. is a print created by Alphonse Legros in 1874 using etching and drypoint techniques. It is a portrait of Valentine Prinsep, an English painter and Royal Academician.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Valentine Prinsep with a thick beard and curly hair, his eyes closed, wearing a simple jacket. The relaxed pose and loose lines convey a sense of informality.

Technique & Style

Legros combined etching and drypoint to achieve a range of line qualities, from fine details to loose, expressive strokes. The resulting image has a warm, textured appearance due to the ink on the paper.

History & Provenance

Alphonse Legros, a French-born artist, created this work after settling in London in 1863. He played a significant role in reviving etching in Britain through his teaching.

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.