Artwork
The Annunciation to the Shepherds
The Annunciation to the Shepherds is a charcoal drawing by the Impressionist artist Charles Angrand. It dates from 1894 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:bottom left: Ch Angrand '94
About this work
Overview
Created in 1894, The Annunciation to the Shepherds is a charcoal and conté crayon drawing on wove paper by French artist Charles Angrand, housed in the National Gallery of Art, Washington.
Subject & Meaning
Depicting a religious scene, the drawing shows a group, likely shepherds, gazing up in awe at a central, radiant light, conveying the biblical moment of the annunciation to the shepherds.
Technique & Style
Angrand employed bold lines, expressive shading, and the contrast of charcoal and conté crayon to achieve a realistic, yet rough-textured, work with pronounced depth and emotional intensity.
History & Provenance
Part of Angrand's output during his involvement with the Parisian avant-garde in the late 19th century, the piece is now part of the National Gallery of Art's collection.
Context
While Angrand is known for Neo-Impressionism, this drawing's realistic style and emphasis on light and shadow reflect broader artistic explorations of the period.
Legacy
The work contributes to the broader legacy of religious art in the late 19th century, with its dramatic use of light and shadow influencing subsequent artistic interpretations of biblical scenes.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Charles Angrand (French pronunciation: ; 19 April 1854 – 1 April 1926) was a French artist who gained renown for his Neo-Impressionist paintings and drawings.
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