Artwork

The Errand

The Errand, by William Strang, ink, 1883
The Errand, by William Strang, ink, 1883

The Errand is an ink print by the Impressionist artist William Strang. It dates from 1883 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Errand is an etching with printed tone created by William Strang in 1883. It is a black-and-white print that exemplifies Strang's work as a Scottish painter and printmaker.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a woman and two children in a wooded area near a village. The scene is narrative in nature, suggesting a story or anecdote, consistent with Strang's interest in illustrating literary subjects.

Technique & Style

The etching features fine lines and shading to convey texture and light, as seen in the rendering of the woman's hat and the children's clothing. The use of printed tone adds depth to the image.

History & Provenance

The Errand is part of the National Gallery of Art's collection in Washington, reflecting its significance within Strang's oeuvre and the broader context of late 19th-century printmaking.

Artist & collection

Portrait of William Strang

Artist

William Strang

William Strang (13 February 1859 – 12 April 1921) was a Scottish painter and printmaker, notable for illustrating the works of Bunyan, Cervantes, Coleridge, Kipling, and others.

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