1871
ink
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The Porte de Versailles at Pont du Jour is a 1871 ink by Maxime Lalanne, a Impressionism work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This sketch shows a busy city scene with a large stone bridge and a fort-like gate in the center. People walk along paths, some near the water’s edge, others climbing stairs. Buildings line the background, and trees dot the landscape. The lines are precise but light, giving a sense of movement. Notice how the artist used fine lines to show texture—like the rough water or the fence posts. This was a way to capture real details without heavy shading. Next, check out how this work uses etching to create depth.
François Antoine Maxime Lalanne (November 27, 1827 – July 29, 1886) was a French artist known for his etchings and charcoal drawings (fusain).
See the richer artist page
