Artwork
Street in the Outskirts of Besançon, France

Street in the Outskirts of Besançon, France is a print by the Romanticist artist Richard Parkes Bonington. It dates from 1827 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Street in the Outskirts of Besançon, France, a 1827 print by English Romantic landscape painter Richard Parkes Bonington, captures a nuanced street scene in France, blending traditional and modern artistic elements.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a contrasted street scene with dilapidated and intact old buildings, alongside a serene crowd of people in 19th-century attire, juxtaposing decay with everyday calm amidst a dramatic, dark sky.
Technique & Style
Bonington's characteristic fluid technique and mastery of light and shadow create depth, emphasizing the interplay of tones to evoke a sense of drama in an otherwise mundane setting.
History & Provenance
Created in 1827, the work is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, reflecting Bonington's prolific output during his time in France.
Context
This piece aligns with the Romantic movement's emphasis on emotion and the sublime, though Bonington's approach remains distinct through his blend of traditional influences with a contemporary, observational style.
Legacy
While not broadly recognized as a singular landmark of Romanticism, the piece contributes to Bonington's reputation for capturing the atmospheric and emotional depth of everyday landscapes.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Richard Parkes Bonington (25 October 1802 – 23 September 1828) was an English Romantic landscape painter.


















