L'Escalade, ou les Adieux du Matin
1787
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1787
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This scene shows a man and woman standing outside a rustic house, saying goodbye in the morning. The man is barefoot, wearing a blue coat and wide-brimmed hat, while the woman holds a child and a dog walks nearby. The house is simple, with clothes hanging on a line and chickens pecking on the ground. Inside, a cat sits by the open door, and a thatched roof blends into the blue sky. The title *L’Escalade* hints at a morning farewell, possibly tied to a local tradition. The artist used soft colors and gentle light to make the moment feel quiet and real. Check out etching to see how artists like Debucourt layered ink for depth.