Reflection (Reflexion)
Artist
Albert Besnard
(French, 1849 - 1934)
Dateabout 1900
MediumCharcoal and gouache over graphite on medium, smooth cream wove paper
Dimensions48.9 x 40.8 cm (19 1/4 x 16 1/16 in.)
ClassificationsDrawings
Credit LineBequest of Malcolm R. McBride
Object number1989.34
DescriptionInscribed in graphite L.L., "Besnard." Sketched on verso in graphite, four equestrian figures (steeple chase)Label TextWinner of the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1874, Besnard admired the Impressionists’ use of light and color, but rejected what he considered their overemphasis on replicating optical effects. Besnard borrowed Impressionism’s sketchy brushstroke and lightened palette, but focused more on spiritual subject matter as opposed to en plein air landscapes. By 1900, he formally aligned himself with the Symbolists, a movement which partly sought to represent the duality of woman as a synthesis of innocent, life-giving vessel and femme fatale.ProvenanceMalcolm R. McBride, Fiesole, Italy
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