Angel with Freed Bird 1961

Benton Spruance made this compelling print, Angel with Freed Bird, using lithography, a process involving printing from a stone or metal plate with a smooth surface. The image is achieved through a labor-intensive process of drawing, etching, and printing, showing the artist's mastery of the medium. The lithographic technique allows Spruance to create subtle tonal variations and textures, seen in the angel’s wings and the birdcage. These gradations give the image depth and emotional resonance. The artist likely used a combination of crayon, tusche wash, and scraping tools to achieve these effects, blending fine art and craft traditions. The expressive lines and tonal contrasts evoke the social context of the mid-20th century. The angel releasing the bird suggests themes of liberation and hope, reflecting Spruance’s engagement with social issues and human struggles. Considering the materials, making, and historical context, the artwork broadens our appreciation of lithography as a powerful medium for artistic expression and social commentary.