Portret van Louis Arsène Delaunay in de rol van Valère in Le Joueur before 1880

This is a portrait of Louis Arsène Delaunay in the role of Valère in Le Joueur, made by an anonymous artist. The printmaking process has imbued the artwork with cultural significance, capturing the essence of theatre and performance. The texture of the etching technique gives depth to the details of Delaunay’s costume. The skilled traditions involved in creating this print reflect a blend of fine arts and craft. The choice of materials is tied to wider social issues of labor, politics, and consumption. Printmaking in this era relied on skilled artisans, contributing to the visual culture of the time. The amount of work involved in the production process is considerable, emphasizing the value placed on craftsmanship. Understanding the materials, making, and context is crucial for appreciating the full meaning of the artwork, and challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.