Chemin Creux

Chemin Creux

Alexandre Calame

1845

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This print shows a winding path through a dense forest. Trees crowd the scene, their branches twisting together. In the distance, a small group of people sits near the water’s edge, looking calm. The whole image is made of dark lines and shading, giving it a textured, almost sketchy feel. The title *Chemin Creux* means "hollow path," which fits the way the trail dips into the greenery. The artist used a method that lets ink build up in layers, creating depth without color. Look up etching to see how artists like this made detailed prints.

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