Le Cabaret du Coq de Bruyère au Bois de Meudon

Executed in wood engraving, the work showcases Lepère’s characteristic use of strong, decisive lines that delineate figures and foliage alike. The contrast between dark outlines and lighter spaces creates a sense of movement, while the layered carving imparts depth to the trees and distant structures, reinforcing the lively dynamism of the scene.

Created during Lepère’s pivotal role in the late‑19th‑century revival of wood engraving across Europe, the print reflects his commitment to re‑establishing the medium’s artistic relevance. It was produced in the same year he exhibited numerous engravings that cemented his reputation as a leading practitioner of the craft.

The cabaret depicted was a real establishment known as the Coq de Bruyère, situated in the Bois de Meudon, a popular leisure destination for Parisians seeking countryside recreation. Such venues combined dining, music, and open‑air entertainment, mirroring broader social trends toward informal public gatherings in natural settings during the Belle Époque.