The image shows a view from slightly above ground level of a rustic scene with weathered buildings integrated into the natural landscape. The horizon is not prominently visible, with land rising behind the buildings and sparse trees atop, and a figure standing on the edge of a cliff to the left. The technique used includes detailed etching strokes creating texture and depth, evident in the stonework and foliage. The color palette is monochrome, with variations of black and white emphasizing details and light and shadow. Stone structures and outdoor tools are closest, and figures sit in front of the buildings, suggesting daily life activity. The background merges with trees and rocky slopes, creating a rustic and tranquil environment.
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The image shows a view from slightly above ground level of a rustic scene with weathered buildings integrated into the natural landscape. The horizon is not prominently visible, with land rising behind the buildings and sparse trees atop, and a figure standing on the edge of a cliff to the left. The technique used includes detailed etching strokes creating texture and depth, evident in the stonework and foliage. The color palette is monochrome, with variations of black and white emphasizing details and light and shadow. Stone structures and outdoor tools are closest, and figures sit in front of the buildings, suggesting daily life activity. The background merges with trees and rocky slopes, creating a rustic and tranquil environment.

National Gallery of Art · Print

A Cottage with Two Men Seated at the Doorway

Nicolas Pérignon

Date
c. 1770
Medium
etching on laid paper
Dimensions
plate: 11.9 x 17.7 cm (4 11/16 x 6 15/16 in.) sheet: 19.5 x 24.3 cm (7 11/16 x 9 9/16 in.)
Classification
Print
Accession number
1994.44.3
Credit line
Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund
Time span
1751 to 1775
Department
CG-E

Portfolio and series

Series
Premier Cahier

Subjects and terms

  • French
  • etching
  • France
  • architecture
  • Landscape
  • Rustic
  • Domestic
  • landscape
Provenance

James Bergquist, Boston; purchased 1994 by NGA.

Inscription

lower right below image in plate: Perignon fecit; by later hand, lower left verso in graphite: 5

Watermarks

Bunch of grapes

NGA object ID 86115. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.