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Ben Ledi 1911
  • Scottish Art
This image of Ben Ledi was produced in 1911, and by 1925 had become one of the most desirable and expensive Scottish prints. Here, Cameron used a combination of etching and drypoint to create the strong and dramatic contrasts of light and shade, resulting in a rich and full-toned image. Ben Ledi is a mountain set in the picturesque scenery of Perthshire, and its name means `Hill of the Gods? in Gaelic. It was a constant source of inspiration for Cameron, who painted Ben Ledi many times in a variety of different seasons and atmospheres. His canvas in the Scottish National Gallery?s collection (NG 2443) shows the mountain in autumn.

Glossary Open

Drypoint

A printmaking technique that uses a needle to etch an image directly onto a copper plate. The resulting raised surface, or burr, which holds the ink used in the printmaking process produces a soft, velvety effect.

Etching

A form of printmaking in which a metal plate is covered with a substance called a 'ground', usually wax, into which an image is drawn with a needle. Acid is applied, eroding the areas of the plate exposed but not the areas covered by wax. The action of the acid creates lines in the metal plate that hold the ink from which a print is made when the plate is pressed against paper under pressure.

Picturesque

A term applied to certain landscape images and garden or architectural designs. The idea became prominent in the 18th century to describe irregular or rough scenes that were deemed worthy to be painted. This includes subjects such as ruined castles or ramshackle cottages.

Drypoint, Etching, Picturesque

Details

  • Acc. No. CAMERON.17
  • Medium Etching and drypoint on paper
  • Size 37.70 x 30.20 cm
  • Credit The Hon. Gertrude Forbes-Sempill Gift 1955

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Scottish Art