Chinese Card Players (plate B) 1936

John W. Winkler made this etching called 'Chinese Card Players' at some point in the 20th century, and what strikes me is the process. It's all about the line, a million little scratches building up to make a world. Look how he uses shadow. It's not just about dark and light, it’s about creating depth, a whole atmosphere. The floorboards, for example – they're not just flat lines, they recede, they angle. It’s like the whole room is breathing. And then there's that ladder in the background. It’s so casually placed, but it adds this layer of complexity, of life happening beyond the card game. I'm reminded of someone like Whistler, who was also interested in capturing everyday moments with such detail, such empathy. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that art is always in conversation.