Artwork

Chasse-maree au plus pres

Chasse-maree au plus pres, by Charles Meryon, graphite, 1844
Chasse-maree au plus pres, by Charles Meryon, graphite, 1844

Chasse-maree au plus pres is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist Charles Meryon. It dates from 1844 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:Not signed. Not dated. "-Chasse-maree au plus pres.-" upper center composition, graphite, artist's hand. "Chasse-Maree / Drawing by C. Meryon 1893 / aged 18 / (from the Heywood collection)" verso, center sheet, graphite, unknown hand. "c.1378/K410" verso, lower left sheet, graphite, unknown hand. "5" verso, lower left sheet, graphite, unknown hand. "con 2545" verso, lower right sheet, graphite, unknown hand. "c. 1378" verso, lower right sheet, graphite, unknown hand.
Markings
Marked:"LRJ" verso, black stamped ink, (Lugt 1760b). "National Gallery of Art" verso, black stamped ink, (Lugt 1932d). "BM" (Bernard MacGeorge collector's stamp) verso, black stamped ink, (Lugt 394).

About this work

Overview

Chasse-maree au plus près is a 1844 drawing by Charles Meryon, a French artist known for his etchings, created using graphite on wove paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts three ships on a turbulent sea, with the central vessel featuring two tall masts and billowing sails. The scene is set against a rocky shoreline and trees on the horizon, suggesting a dynamic maritime scene possibly related to tides or fishing activities.

Technique & Style

Meryon employed quick, light graphite lines to convey the movement of the water and sails, capturing the energy of the scene.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Charles Meryon

Artist

Charles Meryon

Charles Meryon (sometimes Méryon, 23 November 1821 – 14 February 1868) was a French artist who worked almost entirely in etching, as he had colour blindness.

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

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Chasse-maree au plus pres?

Chasse-maree au plus pres was painted by Charles Meryon in 1844.

Where can I see Chasse-maree au plus pres?

Chasse-maree au plus pres is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Chasse-maree au plus pres?

Chasse-maree au plus pres is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Chasse-maree au plus pres?

Museum-quality prints of Chasse-maree au plus pres are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.