Artwork

Jules Destrée

Jules Destrée, by Albert Besnard, ink, 1917
Jules Destrée, by Albert Besnard, ink, 1917

Jules Destrée is an ink print by Albert Besnard. It dates from 1917 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower left in plate: Rome 1917; lower left in graphite: 2e Etat Epreuve d'artiste; lower right in graphite: Besnard; by later hand, lower center in graphite: 178
Markings
Marked:(Albert Besnard stamp) verso, black stamped ink, (Lugt 3440).

About this work

Next, check out etching, drypoint, aquatint to see how artists create these kinds of textures.

This sketch shows a man’s face in profile, looking down slightly. His hair is thick and wavy, and a mustache covers his upper lip. The lines are loose and scratchy, giving the drawing a rough, textured look. The paper has a warm, aged tone, with some smudges and faint marks around the edges.

The artist signed it in the corner and dated it 1917. The style feels quick and expressive, like it was drawn in one go. The dry, sketchy lines suggest the person was more important than perfect details.

Next, check out etching, drypoint, aquatint to see how artists create these kinds of textures.

Overview

Jules Destrée is a print created by Albert Besnard in 1917 using etching and drypoint techniques on Van Gelder laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print is a profile portrait of a man, likely Jules Destrée, with thick, wavy hair and a mustache. The subject is depicted looking downward, conveying a sense of introspection.

Technique & Style

The etching and drypoint techniques used create a rough, textured appearance. Loose and scratchy lines characterize the image, suggesting a rapid and expressive execution that prioritizes capturing the subject's essence over precise detail.

History & Provenance

The print is signed and dated 1917 by the artist, Albert Besnard.

Artist & collection

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

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Jules Destrée?

Jules Destrée was painted by Albert Besnard in 1917.

Where can I see Jules Destrée?

Jules Destrée is held by National Gallery of Art.

Can I buy a print of Jules Destrée?

Museum-quality prints of Jules Destrée are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.