Hollandse zeilschepen op kalm water 1881

Henri Toussaint made this work, 'Hollandse zeilschepen op kalm water', using etching. The print presents a serene scene dominated by the intricate rendering of ships on calm waters. The composition, primarily monochromatic, relies on the interplay between light and shadow to define forms and create depth. Notice how the artist employs fine, closely spaced lines to build up darker areas. This contrasts with the open spaces that suggest the reflective surface of the water and the soft sky. The visual language here is about creating an illusion of depth through careful manipulation of tone and texture. The etching technique allows for a high level of detail, which Toussaint uses to articulate the rigging, sails, and the subtle gradations of the water's surface. The use of hatching and cross-hatching, typical of etching, not only defines shape but also adds a tactile quality to the image. This emphasizes the materiality of the scene, inviting a deeper visual and almost sensory experience.