Hiding the "louis" [verso]

About this work

The painting shows two figures, one bowing and the other standing upright, both dressed in long robes. The bowing figure is positioned on the left side of the image, while the standing figure is on the right. The background of the painting is a light beige color. The figures are rendered in black crayon, brush, and black ink on laid paper, giving the image a sense of depth and texture. The use of dark lines and shading creates a sense of contrast between the figures and the background. The painting is held at the National Gallery of Art, Washington, and is a notable work by the artist Forain, Jean-Louis. For more information on the artist's techniques, look up cross-hatching.