After Dinner 1742

"After Dinner" is an etching by Jacques Philippe Le Bas created in 1742. The scene depicts a group of figures, possibly soldiers, resting on a beach after a meal, with ships and a fortress in the distance. Le Bas was known for his skillful use of line and detail in his etchings, which he often used to create representations of historical events and scenes. Le Bas is known for etchings after the works of many famous artists like Boucher, Watteau, and Van Loo. This particular etching is likely inspired by a contemporary painting and depicts a scene of leisure and respite, possibly a moment of rest for soldiers after a battle or a voyage. The piece is currently held in the Art Institute of Chicago.