Artwork

La Nuit (Night)

La Nuit (Night), by Nicolas François Regnault, ink, 1784
La Nuit (Night), by Nicolas François Regnault, ink, 1784

La Nuit (Night) is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Nicolas François Regnault. It dates from 1784 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower right in plate: lower left in plate: Dessiné et Gravé par N. F. Regnault; lower center in plate: LA NUIT.; by later hand, lower left verso in graphite: 480017; by later hand, lower right verso in graphite: 101020

About this work

Overview

La Nuit (Night) is an etching created by Nicolas François Regnault around 1784. It is a print on laid paper, made using etching and stipple etching techniques.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a serene nighttime scene: a woman lies asleep in bed, accompanied by a small dog on the floor. The dimly lit room is characterized by an atmosphere of quiet intimacy, achieved through the interplay of shadows and light.

Technique & Style

Regnault's use of etching and stipple etching techniques lends the image a high level of detail and texture, contributing to its realistic effect. The medium allows for subtle gradations of tone, enhancing the overall sense of calm.

Marchez tout doux, parlez tout bas
Marchez tout doux, parlez tout bas, Pierre-Philippe Choffard

Artist & collection

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 La Nuit (Night)?

La Nuit (Night) was painted by Nicolas François Regnault in 1784.

Where can I see La Nuit (Night)?

La Nuit (Night) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is La Nuit (Night)?

La Nuit (Night) is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of La Nuit (Night)?

Museum-quality prints of La Nuit (Night) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.