The Rocky Path in the Morvan (Chemin des roches dans le Morvan)

Henri-Joseph Harpignies

Created:
Movement:
1869
Realism
key Notes:
Naturalistic landscape, Atmospheric light
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Dimensions:
37 5/8 x 63 1/4 in. (95.6 x 160.7 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"The Rocky Path in the Morvan (Chemin des roches dans le Morvan)" is a landscape painting by French artist Henri-Joseph Harpignies, created in 1869. Harpignies was known for his depictions of natural scenery, particularly in the French countryside. The Morvan region, located in central France, is characterized by its rugged terrain and dense forests, which are reflected in the composition of this work. The painting exemplifies the influence of the Barbizon School, emphasizing the beauty of nature and the interplay of light and shadow. Harpignies often employed a palette of earthy tones, which is evident in this piece. The exact circumstances of the painting's creation are unknown. Today, it is part of various collections that celebrate 19th-century French landscape painting.

Description of the work:

"The Rocky Path in the Morvan (Chemin des roches dans le Morvan)" by Henri-Joseph Harpignies, created in 1869, is an oil on canvas painting that captures a rugged landscape characterized by rocky outcrops and a winding path. The composition features a foreground dominated by textured rocks and foliage, leading the viewer's eye into the depth of the scene. The color palette consists of earthy tones, with rich greens and browns that evoke the natural environment of the Morvan region. Light plays a significant role in the painting, illuminating the rocks and creating contrasts that enhance the three-dimensionality of the landscape. The brushwork is expressive, with visible strokes that convey the organic forms of the terrain. The overall atmosphere of the work reflects a sense of tranquility and the beauty of nature, typical of Harpignies' landscape paintings.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Rocky Path in the Morvan (Chemin des roches dans le Morvan)