Artwork
Couple Standing in Water
Couple Standing in Water is an ink print by Émile Bernard. It dates from 1915 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Couple Standing in Water is a 1915 print by Émile Bernard, a French artist associated with Post-Impressionism, Cloisonnism, and Synthetism. The work is an etching on Japanese paper, printed in red ink.
Subject & Meaning
The etching depicts two figures standing in shallow water, one naked and the other bare-chested, with subtle suggestions of movement and anatomy. The scene is set against a simple background with reeds and a distant landmass, evoking a serene atmosphere.
Technique & Style
Bernard's graphic style is characterized by fine lines that convey a sense of muscle and movement. The red ink on light paper creates a warm, ethereal effect, while the etching technique allows for intricate details and textures.
History & Provenance
Émile Bernard was connected to prominent artists like Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gauguin, influencing his work and artistic approach. Created in 1915, Couple Standing in Water reflects Bernard's continued exploration of printmaking techniques.
Artist & collection
Artist
Émile Henri Bernard (French pronunciation: ; 28 April 1868 – 16 April 1941) was a French Post-Impressionist painter and writer, who had artistic friendships with Vincent van Gogh, Paul Gauguin and Eugène Boch, and at a later time, Paul…
Passion II (Leidenschaft II)
The Fall and Redemption of Man: Adam and Eve Eating the Forbidden Fruit
Untitled
The Man Sweeping the Interpreter's Parlor
The Fall of Man
The Chaining of Orc
Untitled
Untitled
The Fall and Redemption of Man: Adam and Eve Eating the Forbidden Fruit
Adam and Eve
Rape II (Raub II, Weib halb)
Academy