Edge of a Forest in Bourgogne (Un coin de foret en Bourgogne)

Art Historical Context

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Bourgogne, France, *Edge of a Forest in Bourgogne (Un coin de foret en Bourgogne)* by Alphonse Legros the quiet poetry of nature from the mid-19th century (ca. 1826–1850). Legros, a French-born artist who later became a prominent figure in British art circles, often drew inspiration from his native region's rolling hills and dense woodlands. This print evokes the intimate beauty of a forest's edge, highlighting his keen eye for atmospheric detail and natural light filtering through the trees. Rendered in etching and drypoint, the work showcases Legros's mastery of printmaking techniques. Etching allows for precise, fluid lines etched into a metal plate with acid, while drypoint adds a tactile richness through direct needle scratches that create velvety burrs and subtle textures. These methods were revolutionary in the 19th century, enabling artists to produce nuanced tonal effects rivaling paintings, and Legros was celebrated for elevating prints to fine art status. A cherished gift to the National Gallery of Art from George Matthew Adams in memory of his mother, Lydia Havens Adams, this piece (Department CG-E) invites visitors to ponder the enduring allure of rural France. It reflects the era's growing appreciation for Realism in art, bridging everyday scenery with profound artistic expression.

About the Artist

Alphonse Legros · 1837–1911

Alphonse Legros (1837–1911) was born in Dijon, France, and trained in Paris at the drawing school of Horace Lecoq de Boisbaudran, whose unconventional teaching method — which emphasised memory drawing and acute observation over academic convention — would leave a lasting mark on Legros's practice. At Lecoq's school he formed friendships with Jules Dalou and Auguste Rodin that endured throughout hi...