Les Ours (The Bears)

1858/1874

Karl Bodmer

Associated Names
Karl Bodmer

Artist, Swiss, 1809 - 1893

This image shows a black and white etching of two young bears climbing and resting on a tall tree trunk. The viewpoint is slightly elevated, as if from a nearby vantage point on the ground. The horizon line is implied in the upper middle part of the image where the tree canopy thins. The etching is detailed with precise lines creating the texture of the bears' fur and the tree's surface, as well as the surrounding foliage. The vegetation close to us is highly detailed, with intricate lines and shading, while in the distance, smaller trees and hints of clouds suggest a transition into the background where details are softer. The grayscale palette uses contrast to distinguish between the bears and the tree against the foliage and sky.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching in black on chine collé

  • Credit Line

    René Huyghe Collection

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 21.6 x 17.6 cm (8 1/2 x 6 15/16 in.)
    support: 38 x 26.4 cm (14 15/16 x 10 3/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1994.42.2


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

René Huyghe; gift to NGA Photo Archives (transferred to DCG in 1994).

Associated Names

Inscriptions

lower left in stone: K Bodmer fec.

Wikidata ID

Q75125002

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