Artwork
Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere)

Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere) is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Alphonse Legros. It dates from 1874 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere), created by Alphonse Legros in 1874, is an etching enhanced with sepia ink and wash, capturing a serene riverside moment.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a tranquil riverside scene with a prominent tree on the left bank, a smaller tree on the opposite shore, and a small boat on the calm water, evoking peacefulness and natural harmony.
Technique & Style
Legros employed etching with sepia ink and wash to achieve soft shadows and three-dimensional textures, particularly in the trees, showcasing his mastery of tonal depth in printmaking.
History & Provenance
Created in 1874 by French-born, British-settled artist Alphonse Legros, this work reflects his role in the British etching revival after his 1863 relocation to London.
Context
Part of a broader revival of etching in Britain led by Legros, the piece demonstrates the medium's capabilities for detailed, expressive landscapes, as facilitated by techniques involving acid and metal plates.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation:; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.
















