La Femme 1886

Paul-Albert Besnard made this etching called "La Femme." Look closely, and you'll notice the remarkable, intricate process of its making. Etching involves drawing with a needle on a metal plate covered with wax. Acid then bites into the exposed lines, creating grooves that hold ink. The plate is then pressed onto paper. The result is a print with a distinctive, velvety texture. Besnard's skill is evident in the delicate lines and tonal variations he achieved with this fairly demanding printing process. The deep blacks contrast with the bright highlights to create an atmospheric and sensual image. The model emerging from darkness feels both intimate and powerful. Thinking about process opens up all sorts of questions about art, labor, and value. We tend to focus on the image, but the labor-intensive and technically skilled processes of printmaking have their own histories. This artwork serves as a powerful reminder of the vital connection between materials, techniques, and the meaning of art.