Avalanche in an Alpine Landscape

c. 1870

Pierre Puvis de Chavannes

Associated Names
Pierre Puvis de Chavannes

Artist, French, 1824 - 1898

The image shows a downward perspective, appearing to be from a mountainside looking into a valley. The horizon is partly visible but mostly hidden by mountains and trees. The artwork features light and sketchy brushstrokes with graphite or pencil marks adding texture to trees and rocks, giving depth to the scene. The color palette is mostly monochromatic, using shades of gray to depict shadowed and sunlit areas. Closest to the viewer are rocks and vegetation leading down to the valley, with the scene transitioning into thick woodland and rocky slopes in the background.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    black and white chalk on blue paper (verso)

  • Credit Line

    Maxwell Fund

  • Dimensions

    overall: 35.9 x 23.9 cm (14 1/8 x 9 7/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2007.66.1.b

Associated Artworks

The image displays the upper body of a person in a seated position, drawn in profile. The individual appears relaxed with their head slightly tilted forward, closed eyes, and a hint of a mustache. The neatly styled hair is combed to the side, and the person is wearing a high-collared garment, potentially a suit or coat. They are depicted holding a violin against their shoulder, with the bow held in their hand. The background is plain, focusing on the subject of the drawing.

The Violinist

Pierre Puvis de Chavannes

1870


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Patrick Derom Gallery, New York); purchased 2007 by NGA.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1967

  • Drawings of Importance from 1860 to 1960, Roland, Browse, and Delbanco, London, 1967.

Wikidata ID

Q64619628

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