Artwork

Woman and Child before a Fireplace

Woman and Child before a Fireplace, by Gilles-Antoine Demarteau, chalk, 1776
Woman and Child before a Fireplace, by Gilles-Antoine Demarteau, chalk, 1776

Woman and Child before a Fireplace is a chalk print by the Romanticist artist Gilles-Antoine Demarteau. It dates from 1776 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower left in plate: F. Boucher del.; lower right in plate: Demarteau sc. / No 566; lower center in plate: A Paris chez Demarteau Graveur, rue de la Pelterie, a la Cloche

About this work

Overview

Woman and Child before a Fireplace is a print created by Gilles-Antoine Demarteau in 1776 using the chalk manner technique on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a tender scene of a woman holding a child, with a dog nearby, set against the warm backdrop of a fireplace. The gentle expression on the woman's face conveys a sense of intimacy and warmth.

Technique & Style

The use of red and black chalk manner printing creates a soft, warm atmosphere. The loose brushwork and subtle shading contribute to a dreamy, unfinished quality, characteristic of a delicate and intimate representation.

Context

This work is an example of a pre-Romanticist style, which later influenced the development of Romanticism in the 19th century.

Les Nourrices (The Nurses)
Les Nourrices (The Nurses), Jean-François Janinet

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 Woman and Child before a Fireplace?

Woman and Child before a Fireplace was painted by Gilles-Antoine Demarteau in 1776.

Where can I see Woman and Child before a Fireplace?

Woman and Child before a Fireplace is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Woman and Child before a Fireplace?

Woman and Child before a Fireplace is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Woman and Child before a Fireplace?

Museum-quality prints of Woman and Child before a Fireplace are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.