Artwork

Alphonse Legros, No. 1

Alphonse Legros, No. 1, by William Strang, ink, 1910
Alphonse Legros, No. 1, by William Strang, ink, 1910

Alphonse Legros, No. 1 is an ink print by William Strang. It dates from 1910 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Alphonse Legros, No.

About this work

Overview

Alphonse Legros, No. 1 is a drypoint portrait on laid paper created by William Strang in 1910.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Alphonse Legros, a French-born artist and printmaker, in a contemplative pose with his eyes cast downward. The level of detail in his hair and beard suggests a deep familiarity between the subject and the artist.

Technique & Style

Strang's use of drypoint technique achieves a range of tones, from deep shadows to soft highlights, creating a sense of depth. The intricate rendering of the subject's features and the use of line and texture contribute to the overall realism of the portrait.

History & Provenance

William Strang, a Scottish painter and printmaker, was known for his work in book illustrations and prints, having illustrated texts by authors such as Bunyan, Cervantes, and Kipling. This portrait reflects his connection to fellow artists in the medium.

Artist & collection

Portrait of William Strang

Artist

William Strang

William Strang (13 February 1859 – 12 April 1921) was a Scottish painter and printmaker, notable for illustrating the works of Bunyan, Cervantes, Coleridge, Kipling, and others.

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