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Shadow (Ombre)

Alphonse Legros

1874

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Romanticism Late 19th Century Religious

Dominant colour

Shadow (Ombre) is a 1874 ink by Alphonse Legros, a Romanticism work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Alphonse Legros
When & what style?: 1874 · Romanticism
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This etching shows a dimly lit group of people gathered around a table. They’re reaching toward a glowing light source, their faces half-hidden in shadow. The lines are rough and scratchy, making everything feel urgent and alive. The artist used loose, sketchy marks to create drama—like light cutting through darkness. This style fits the Romantic movement, which loved big emotions and mystery. Next, look up etching to see how artists like Legros made prints with acid and needles.