Open full image Pin

On allume les cierges pour les Morts (They light candles for the dead)

Félix-Hilaire Buhot

1878

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Impressionism Realism Late 19th Century Allegory

Dominant colour

On allume les cierges pour les Morts (They light candles for the dead) is a 1878 ink by Félix-Hilaire Buhot, a Impressionism work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Félix-Hilaire Buhot
When & what style?: 1878 · Impressionism
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This etching depicts a somber scene, with a dark silhouette of a building and a person in the foreground. The sky is filled with dark clouds, and a few birds are flying overhead. In the background, there is a faint image of a person standing on a hill, looking out at the sea. The etching is done in black ink on Japanese paper, which gives it a delicate and intricate quality. The use of drypoint and roulette techniques adds texture and depth to the image. The overall mood of the etching is one of melancholy and contemplation. It invites the viewer to reflect on the passing of time and the fleeting nature of life. Next, explore the art of Félix-Hilaire Buhot.