Who painted Souvenir de Bretagne?

Souvenir de Bretagne was painted by Eugène Isabey in 1832.

Where can I see Souvenir de Bretagne?

Souvenir de Bretagne is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Souvenir de Bretagne?

Souvenir de Bretagne is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Souvenir de Bretagne?

Museum-quality prints of Souvenir de Bretagne are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Souvenir de Bretagne

Eugène Isabey , 1832

Souvenir de Bretagne is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Eugène Isabey. It dates from 1832 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower left: Eug. Isabey del / Paris publiée par Mourot; lower right: Lith de C Motté / London published by McLean, 26 Hay Market; lower center: SOUVENIR DE BRETAGNE

About this work

Overview

Souvenir de Bretagne is a lithograph on wove paper created by French artist Eugène Isabey in 1832, exemplifying his Romantic style through a depiction of a serene, medieval Breton town scene.

Subject & Meaning

The print captures a narrow, stone-built medieval street in Brittany, with a central stream, rocky foreground, and overcast sky. The composition conveys a sense of quiet contemplation, inviting the viewer into a secluded, atmospheric setting.

Technique & Style

Isabey's use of lithography achieves a nuanced play of light and shadow, enhancing the depth and mood of the scene. The looming buildings and long shadows contribute to the overall sense of intimacy and tranquility, characteristic of Romantic-era emphasis on atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Created in 1832, the work reflects Isabey's practice of depicting regional life and landscapes, likely inspired by his travels through Brittany. Specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

Souvenir de Bretagne fits within the broader Romantic movement's fascination with local color, daily life, and evocative landscapes, positioning Isabey among contemporaries exploring similar themes in 19th-century French art.

Legacy

While specific legacy details of Souvenir de Bretagne are not outlined, the piece contributes to Isabey's overall reputation as a versatile Romantic artist, known for his contributions to lithography, painting, and watercolor.

Voyages pittoresques et romantiques dans l'ancienne France. Bretagne: Grande rue vieille à Nantes, Eugène Cicéri

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Artist & collection

Artist

Eugène Isabey

Eugène Louis Gabriel Isabey (French pronunciation:; 22 July 1803 – 25 April 1886) was a French painter, lithographer and watercolorist in the Romantic style.