Artwork
Tikao, naturel d'Akaroa
Tikao, naturel d'Akaroa is an ink drawing by the Romanticist artist Charles Meryon. It dates from 1844 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Tikao, naturel d'Akaroa is a drawing created by Charles Meryon in 1844 using ink and graphite on wove paper. It is a portrait of a person, identified as being from Akaroa, New Zealand.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a serious-looking individual wrapped in a thick fur cloak, with curly hair and a rugged appearance. The artist's inscription suggests the subject is Tikao, a native of Akaroa, capturing their likeness with a sense of urgency.
Technique & Style
The drawing is characterized by rough, expressive lines and extensive shading, particularly in the fur cloak and hair. Meryon's use of cross-hatching creates textured shadows, adding depth to the portrait.
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.
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