A House and a Shaded Cottage on the Banks of a River c. 1770

This etching by French artist Nicolas Pérignon depicts a serene rural scene with a quaint cottage nestled on the banks of a river. The composition features a charming thatched-roof house with a single window, surrounded by lush trees and foliage. The artist's delicate lines and shading create a sense of depth and atmosphere, showcasing the tranquility of the landscape. The river, flowing gently in the foreground, adds a sense of movement to the otherwise static scene. This picturesque depiction of a rural idyll, created in the 18th century, reflects the artistic trends of the era that favored scenes of natural beauty and simplicity.