Do you see, my dear, the cigars . . . c. 19th century

Editor: This is "Do you see, my dear, the cigars . . ." by Paul Gavarni. It looks like a print, and I find the stark contrasts created by the line work quite striking. What do you see in the composition that I might be missing? Curator: The artist uses the contrast of light and shadow to articulate the volumes of the figures and their drapery. Note how the lines vary in thickness to suggest depth and texture, defining the shapes and their relation. Editor: So, it's about the way the lines themselves create the image. Curator: Precisely. The formal elements, line, tone, and composition, converge to convey a sense of dialogue and interiority. The visual language establishes a narrative. Editor: That's fascinating; focusing on the lines opens up a whole new understanding! Curator: Indeed, by observing the forms, we discern the artist's intent and skill.