The Death of the Vagrant

Artist Alphonse Legros (1837 - 1911)

MediumEtching and aquatint on paper

Dimensions63 x 44.5 cm

ClassificationsPrint

Credit LineCollection & image © Hugh Lane Gallery. Donated by Alphonse Legros (the Artist).

Object number416

DescriptionThis is an intaglio print (etching and aquatint) on paper. It is an atmospheric print depicting a dying vagabond lying beneath a bare tree. The tree is sharply leaning, counterbalancing the pose of the dying man, giving a sense of imminent drama, as is the dark encrouching sky. The tree is struggling to remain upright echoing the man's struggle to hold onto life.

Legros was born in Dijon, France and attended art school there, with the intention of becoming a tradesman. However in 1855 Legros attended the evening classes of the École des Beaux Arts in Paris. Legros went to England in 1863 and became teacher of etching at the South Kensington School of Art. In 1876 he took up position of Professor at Slade University College, London, where he was of great influence to many well-known artists of the day.

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