Le Retour des Artistes
1877
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1877
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows a rainy city street with people walking under umbrellas. A horse-drawn carriage sits in the background, and a statue stands near the center. The ground looks wet, with puddles reflecting the figures. The artist used quick, sketchy lines to capture movement and light. The title *Le Retour des Artistes* hints this scene might show artists returning home after a long day. The messy, loose lines are typical of artists experimenting with how to show life quickly. Next, check out etching to see how this technique creates texture and depth.