Artwork
Les Folies-Bergère (planche refusée, 2e planche) (The Folies Bergère) (refused plate, second plate)
Les Folies-Bergère (planche refusée, 2e planche) (The Folies Bergère) (refused plate, second plate) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Jean-Louis Forain. It dates from 1880 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:"forain" upper left composition, in plate, artist's hand. Not dated. "p 7/26" lower left margain, graphite, unknown hand. "4/30" lower center margin, graphite, unknown hand. "EE 1860" lower right margin, graphite, unknown hand. "husee Kall" lower left margin, graphite, unknown hand. Verso: none.
- Markings
- Marked:"LRJ" verso, black stamped ink, (Lugt 1760b). "National Gallery of Art" verso, black stamped ink, (Lugt 1932d).
About this work
Overview
Les Folies-Bergère (planche refusée, 2e planche) is an 1880 etching on laid Arches paper by Jean-Louis Forain, a French artist proficient in multiple mediums including painting and printmaking.
Subject & Meaning
The etching captures a moment in the Folies Bergère, a renowned Parisian entertainment venue of the late 19th century. The scene portrays a crowded, dimly lit interior with figures engaged in social interaction, highlighting the venue's lively atmosphere.
Technique & Style
Forain employed a distinctive etching technique characterized by rough, scratchy lines, evoking a sense of spontaneity reminiscent of a quick sketch. This approach contrasts light and dark, with pronounced shadows and selective bright accents.
History & Provenance
Created in 1880, this etching was part of a series by Forain focusing on Parisian nightlife. Notably, it was a 'planche refusée' (rejected plate), though the reason for its rejection is not specified in available information.
Context
While Forain achieved relative success during his lifetime compared to some Impressionist contemporaries, his overall reputation has waned since. This work reflects his interest in documenting the social scenes of his time.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Jean-Louis Forain (French pronunciation:; 23 October 1852 – 11 July 1931) was a French Impressionist painter and printmaker, working in media including oils, watercolour, pastel, etching and lithograph.
