Woodblock for Lock of the Canal Saint-Martin Possibly 1890 - 1910

This woodblock print by French artist Auguste-Louis Lepère, possibly dating from 1890-1910, depicts a scene from the Canal Saint-Martin in Paris. The print showcases Lepère’s mastery of the woodblock technique with its bold lines and stark contrasts. The focus is on a group of men working together to open the lock, their figures rendered with a sense of realism and energy. The image provides a glimpse into the industrial life of early 20th-century Paris, with factories and smokestacks visible in the background. This woodblock print is now part of the The Art Institute of Chicago's collection.