Artwork Page for Old Man Before the Log Bridge

Details / Information for Old Man Before the Log Bridge

Old Man Before the Log Bridge

1819

Johann Christoph Erhard

(German, 1795–1822)
Culture
Germany, 19th century
Medium
etching
Credit Line
Mr. and Mrs. Charles G. Prasse Collection 1969.243
Catalogue raisonné
Apell 92
State
II/III
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print

Description

This print comes from a series of four etchings known as the "Salzburg landscapes with large figures." Johann Erhard used the setting of the figures in the landscape to hint at wider concerns. This composition of an elderly man approaching a bridge may be read as a metaphor for crossing the boundary between life and death. In Erhard’s oeuvre, the beauty of the landscape gives no assurance of a carefree way of life. His pessimistic outlook can be linked to his mental collapse and suicide in 1822.
A horizontally oriented print in black ink depicts an elderly man in a wide-brimmed hat and long coat walking toward us through a wooded landscape. He clutches a staff, stepping toward a bridge of logs. Fine, layered lines and dense cross-hatching define the surrounding foliage and large-leaved plants. To our far left, a vertical band features smaller, lighter sketches of various figures, including a woman carrying a basket.

Old Man Before the Log Bridge

1819

Johann Christoph Erhard

(German, 1795–1822)
Germany, 19th century

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork