Death and the Woodcutter, 2nd plate (La Mort de le bucheron)
1874
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1874
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows a woodcutter lying on the ground, his axe nearby. A shadowy figure with a scythe stands over him, looking down. The background is full of tangled trees and bushes, drawn with quick, rough lines. The woodcutter’s face is hidden, but his posture suggests exhaustion or defeat. The scythe-wielding figure feels like a silent threat, more than just a person—maybe a symbol. Check out etching to see how artists like Legros made prints with sharp tools.
