Who painted Funérailles de Victor Hugo. La Veillée?

Funérailles de Victor Hugo. La Veillée was painted by Auguste Lepère in 1885.

Where can I see Funérailles de Victor Hugo. La Veillée?

Funérailles de Victor Hugo. La Veillée is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Funérailles de Victor Hugo. La Veillée?

Funérailles de Victor Hugo. La Veillée is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Funérailles de Victor Hugo. La Veillée

Auguste Lepère , 1885

Funérailles de Victor Hugo. La Veillée is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Auguste Lepère. It dates from 1885 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Funérailles de Victor Hugo.

About this work

Overview

Funérailles de Victor Hugo. La Veillée is a wood engraving created by Auguste Lepère in 1885, capturing a moment from the funeral vigil of the celebrated French writer Victor Hugo.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a densely packed, dimly lit space where mourners have gathered, with a grand stage and draped coffin in the background illuminated by torches. The crowd's density and the use of light and shadow convey a sense of solemnity and urgency.

Technique & Style

Lepère employed sharp lines and shadows to create a sense of depth, while the wood engraving technique lends the work a textured appearance reminiscent of period newspaper illustrations. The medium's characteristics add to the overall feeling of crowdedness and immediacy.

History & Provenance

Auguste Lepère was a French painter and etcher who played a significant role in reviving wood engraving as an artistic medium in Europe during the late 19th century.

Artist & collection

Artist

Auguste Lepère

Louis-Auguste Lepère (30 November 1849 – 20 November 1918) was a French painter and etcher. Lepère is also considered a leader in the creative revival of wood engraving in Europe.