Henri Rivière (1864–1951) — Le Cap, 1908

Important original color lithograph by Henri Rivière, titled Le Cap and dated 1908.

The work depicts Cap de la Chèvre, at the southern tip of the Crozon Peninsula, not far from Morgat, where Henri Rivière stayed and found a major source of inspiration.

Under a heavy sky, the rocky coastline juts out into the sea while two fishermen make their way up a steep path from the shore. The grandeur of the landscape—with the sea occupying a large part of the composition and the small human figures—beautifully conveys Rivière’s attention to Breton landscapes.

At the tip of the cape stands the Cap de la Chèvre semaphore tower, built in the 19th century. The presence of the square tower erected in the early 20th century also serves as an interesting topographical and chronological reference point within the composition.

As is often the case with Rivière, the use of broad areas of flat color, the bold outlines, and the highly graphic organization of the various planes attest to the profound influence of Japanese printmaking on his work.

Printed signature “Henri Rivière” in the lower left corner.

Artist: Henri Rivière (1864–1951)
Title: Le Cap
Date: 1908
Technique: original color lithograph
Subject: Cap de la Chèvre, Crozon Peninsula, Brittany
Signature: printed signature “Henri Rivière” in the lower left corner
Dimensions of the lithograph: 54 × 81 cm
Dimensions with frame: 66.5 × 94 cm
Handcrafted framing: under glass, modern frame