Artwork
W.H. Longfellow, 1st plate
W.H. Longfellow, 1st plate 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. W.
About this work
Overview
W.H. Longfellow, 1st plate is a print created by Alphonse Legros in 1874 using etching and drypoint techniques. It is a portrait of the American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts Longfellow's face and shoulders, emphasizing his wrinkled features and thick eyebrows. The focus on the subject's facial expression suggests a character study or tribute to the poet.
Technique & Style
Legros employed etching and drypoint to achieve a range of line qualities, from scratchy and uneven to dark and expressive. The technique allows for varying line densities, creating a raw and realistic portrait.
History & Provenance
Alphonse Legros, a French-born artist who became a British citizen, created this work in 1874. He was influential in reviving etching in Britain through his teaching and practice.
Artist & collection
Artist
Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation: ; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.
