Artwork

In Love (Amoureux)

In Love (Amoureux), by Théophile Alexandre Steinlen, ink, 1888
In Love (Amoureux), by Théophile Alexandre Steinlen, ink, 1888

In Love (Amoureux) is an ink drawing by the Impressionist artist Théophile Alexandre Steinlen. It dates from 1888 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

In Love (Amoureux) is a drawing created by Théophile Alexandre Steinlen in 1888. It is a mixed-media work on paper, featuring a man sitting on a curb against a cityscape background.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a contemplative man with his hat pulled low, set against a densely sketched city street. The contrast between the partially lit figure and the dark background creates a sense of introspection.

Technique & Style

Steinlen employed a range of techniques, including cross-hatching with pen and ink, and collage using different types of paper. The use of cross-hatching adds texture to the shadows, creating depth in the cityscape.

Context

Steinlen was associated with the Art Nouveau movement and was also politically active, contributing to anarchist and socialist publications. This context may have influenced the themes and tone of his artwork.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Théophile Alexandre Steinlen

Artist

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen (November 10, 1859 – December 13, 1923), was a Swiss-born French Art Nouveau painter and printmaker. He was politically engaged and collaborated with the anarchist and socialist press.

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