Is Frederic Waistell Jopling's work still under copyright?

No, works by this artist are in the public domain.

Where are some of Jopling's artworks showcased, including Niagara Falls etching?

Musée Municipal Frederic Blandin

(1859 - 1945)

Frederic Waistell Jopling: A Master of Atmospheric Landscape Etching

Frederic Waistell Jopling (1859 – 1945) stands as a testament to the enduring power of observation and meticulous artistic technique. Born in London, England, Jopling’s journey into art began amidst the burgeoning modernist movement, absorbing influences from luminaries like Rembrandt van Rijn and Claude Monet—artists who championed masterful use of light and emotion within their canvases. This formative period instilled in him a profound appreciation for capturing the essence of natural beauty alongside architectural grandeur, shaping his distinctive artistic vision.

Early Life & Education: Little is known about Jopling’s formal education beyond indications that he pursued studies at Slade School of Fine Art, London, honing his skills in drawing and painting before dedicating himself to etching.
Technique & Style: Jopling's artistic approach was characterized by a remarkable blending of methods—primarily utilizing hard and soft mezzotint techniques combined with tonal shading—a process that allowed him to achieve breathtaking atmospheric depth and realism. This meticulous attention to detail resulted in etchings imbued with an unparalleled sense of mood and perspective.
Notable Subjects: Jopling’s oeuvre predominantly focused on landscapes, particularly those featuring iconic locations like Hampton Court Palace, meticulously rendered with painstaking accuracy. However, he wasn't solely captivated by grand vistas; he also explored intimate scenes of rural life and architectural interiors.

Major Achievements & Exhibitions

Jopling’s artistic reputation grew steadily throughout his career, culminating in recognition from prestigious institutions across Europe and North America. His works graced the walls of galleries such as the National Gallery of Canada, the Art Gallery of Ontario, and Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, cementing his place within the canon of late nineteenth-century art. Particularly noteworthy is ‘Whirlpool Rapids Illuminated,’ a 1916 etching depicting Niagara Falls—a piece celebrated for its dramatic portrayal of light and shadow and its masterful execution of linework. Furthermore, his etching ‘Landscape with House and River’ remains a cornerstone of Canadian landscape art history.

Canadian Recognition: Jopling's etchings were prominently displayed at the National Gallery of Canada and Art Gallery of Ontario, establishing him as a significant figure in Canadian artistic circles.
International Exposure: His works traveled extensively throughout Europe, garnering acclaim from discerning audiences and securing his reputation as an internationally respected artist.

Influences & Artistic Legacy

Rembrandt’s Influence: Jopling adopted Rembrandt’s technique of chiaroscuro, emphasizing dramatic contrasts to heighten emotional impact.
Monet's Inspiration: Like Monet, Jopling embraced Impressionistic principles, prioritizing color and light to evoke feelings and sensations within his viewers.