Artwork
Valley in Bourgogne (Une vallee en Bourgogne)

Valley in Bourgogne (Une vallee en Bourgogne) 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. Created in 1874, *Valley in Bourgogne* is a print that combines etching with drypoint.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1874, *Valley in Bourgogne* is a print that combines etching with drypoint. The work presents a tranquil Burgundy valley, its rolling hills and a meandering river framed by densely branched trees and a compact settlement beyond the water’s edge.
Subject & Meaning
The composition captures a serene rural scene, emphasizing the interplay of light and shadow across the landscape. The densely tangled foliage and the gentle rise of hills convey a sense of natural vitality, while the clustered village suggests a harmonious relationship between people and their environment.
Technique & Style
Legros employed the fine, incised lines of drypoint alongside traditional etching to render delicate tonal variations. This dual approach allows for crisp outlines in the foreground trees and softer gradations in the distant hills, creating depth and a subtle impression of movement within the static image.
History & Provenance
Born in France, Alphonse Legros moved to London in 1863, where he became a pivotal figure in the British revival of etching. *Valley in Bourgogne* reflects his early interest in landscape printmaking during the 1870s, a period when he was actively promoting the medium through teaching and exhibition.
Context
The print belongs to a broader 19th‑century fascination with the French countryside, especially the picturesque qualities of Burgundy. Legros’s work aligns with contemporaneous efforts to reinvigorate traditional print techniques, positioning him among artists who sought to blend academic training with emerging aesthetic concerns.
Artist & collection
Artist
Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation: ; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.















