Oudere zus 1836 - 1912

Eugène Smits created this etching, titled 'Oudere zus', with ink on paper. The tender embrace between two figures immediately draws the eye, framed within a soft, circular boundary. The artist uses a muted palette, relying on subtle tonal variations to define form and texture, creating a quiet, intimate scene. Smits' use of etching, with its fine lines and delicate shading, lends itself well to exploring the interplay of light and shadow. The controlled circular composition focuses our attention on the interaction of the figures, their faces almost touching. The use of line here is quite remarkable, providing an outline of the forms without fully enclosing them, suggesting a sense of openness. This technique invites us to reflect on the nature of relationships and the boundaries that define them. Ultimately, the strength of this artwork lies in its formal execution, using simple yet effective visual elements to convey complex emotional states. The artwork offers a space for contemplation and an appreciation of the silent dialogues that art can provoke.