Artwork

La mére bienaimée (The Well-Loved Mother)

La mére bienaimée (The Well-Loved Mother), by Jean Massard, ink, 1775
La mére bienaimée (The Well-Loved Mother), by Jean Massard, ink, 1775

La mére bienaimée (The Well-Loved Mother) is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Jean Massard. It dates from 1775 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

La mére bienaimée (The Well-Loved Mother) is an engraving with etching on laid paper created by Jean Massard in 1775.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a lively family scene, with a central female figure surrounded by children and a dog, while a formally dressed man stands to the side, engaged in storytelling. The title suggests a focus on maternal love, though the atmosphere is playful rather than solemn.

Technique & Style

The use of shading and etching techniques creates a three-dimensional effect, with detailed lines and textures achieved through the combination of engraving and etching on laid paper.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jean Massard

Artist

Jean Massard

Jean Massard (1771–1771) was an artist.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.