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Apotheosis (L'Apothéose), by Paul-Albert Besnard, ink, 1886

Apotheosis (L'Apothéose)

Paul-Albert Besnard

1886

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Dominant colour

Overview

Apotheosis (L'Apothéose) is a 1886 ink by Paul-Albert Besnard, a Impressionism work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?
Paul-Albert Besnard
When & what style?
1886 · Impressionism
Where can I see it?
National Gallery of Art

About this work

This sketch shows a single figure lying on their back, arms raised above their head. The lines are loose and quick, with lots of swirling marks around the body. The paper has a textured look, and the artist left some areas almost blank. The figure’s pose looks relaxed, almost like they’re floating. The sketch feels more like a quick study than a finished drawing—it’s all about movement and gesture. Next, look up etching to see how artists like this one use acid and plates to make prints.

About the artist

Portrait of Paul-Albert Besnard
Artist

Paul-Albert Besnard

Paul-Albert Besnard (1849–1934) was a French artist, born in 7th arrondissement of Paris.

See the richer artist page

More by Paul-Albert Besnard

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