Artwork

Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere)

Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere), by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1874
Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere), by Alphonse Legros, ink, 1874

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.

Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere)
Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere), Alphonse Legros

Artist & collection

Portrait of Alphonse Legros

Artist

Alphonse Legros

Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation:; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere)?

Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere) was painted by Alphonse Legros in 1874.

Where can I see Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere)?

Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere)?

Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere) is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere)?

Museum-quality prints of Bend in the River (Un coin de riviere) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.