At the Tiller 1929

This etching by Arthur Briscoe, titled "At the Tiller," captures a sailor steering a boat through choppy waters. The composition is a masterclass in perspective, drawing us into the scene through the lines of the boat's deck and rigging. The rough sea and the sky are rendered with a network of fine lines, creating a sense of depth and movement. Briscoe's use of line emphasizes the sailor's solitary struggle against the elements. The etching technique itself, with its sharp, precise lines, mirrors the harsh reality of life at sea. The limited tonal range focuses our attention on the structure of the scene. The diagonal lines of the waves create a dynamic tension, while the static vertical of the mast provides a sense of stability. This work functions as more than just a representational scene; it serves as a study in contrasts and the structural elements that shape our perception. The controlled chaos of the lines captures the precarious balance between man and nature, inviting us to consider the deeper philosophical implications of our relationship with the world.