Artwork
Le Pont-au-Change, Paris
Le Pont-au-Change, Paris is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Charles Meryon. It dates from 1854 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Le Pont-au-Change, Paris is an etching on laid paper created by Charles Meryon in 1854. It is part of a series of Parisian views that showcase the artist's unique perspective on the city.
Subject & Meaning
The etching depicts a stone bridge over a river, with a large, imposing building on the far side and a hot-air balloon floating above. The scene is rendered in fine detail, capturing the play of light and shadow on the water and architecture.
Technique & Style
Meryon's use of fine lines and sharp details creates a three-dimensional effect, characteristic of his innovative approach to etching. This style emphasized texture and detail over smooth color transitions.
History & Provenance
Charles Meryon, a French etcher with color blindness, worked primarily in etching due to his condition. His mother was associated with the Paris Opera and later moved to London, though her influence on his work is not directly evident in Le Pont-au-Change, Paris.
Artist & collection
Artist
Charles Meryon (sometimes Méryon, 23 November 1821 – 14 February 1868) was a French artist who worked almost entirely in etching, as he had colour blindness.
Le Pont-au-Change, Paris
Le Pont-au-Change, Paris
Le Pont-au-Change
View of the Pont au Change and the Palais de Justice, Paris
Le Pont-au-Change, Paris, vers 1784
Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris:View of Pont au Change
Le Pont Neuf, Paris
Le Pont-Neuf, Paris
L'arch du Pont Notre Dame, Paris
Le Pont-au-Change, Paris, vers 1784
Passerelle du Pont-au-Change, Paris, après l'Incendie de 1621 (Footbridge Temporarily Replacing the Pont-au-Change, Paris, after the Fire of 1621)