
Read the visual description
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
- 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.