Artwork

Belgian Border, Bill of Disorder (Frontiere de Belgique. Billet a Desordre)

Belgian Border, Bill of Disorder (Frontiere de Belgique. Billet a Desordre) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Félicien Rops. It dates from 1871 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Félicien Rops's 1871 etching Belgian Border, Bill of Disorder (Frontiere de Belgique. Billet a Desordre) is a print that showcases the artist's innovative use of intaglio techniques. Rops was a Belgian artist associated with Symbolism, Decadence, and the Parisian avant-garde.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a chaotic scene where a lion labeled 'Belgicus Leo' is being overthrown by a group of figures. The image likely satirizes borders or power struggles, with the lion's name and the word 'Frontiere' on a sign being attacked hinting at a political joke.

Technique & Style

The print features rough shading and messy lines, conveying a sense of urgency and anger. The top half of the image includes three blurry, smudged faces that appear to be shouting or laughing, adding to the overall feeling of chaos.

Artist & collection

Artist

Félicien Rops

Félicien Victor Joseph Rops (French: ; 7 July 1833 – 23 August 1898) was a Belgian artist associated with Symbolism, Decadence, and the Parisian fin de siècle, and was a member of the Les XX group.