Woman of the Gabbro (Donna al gabbro) 1886 - 1887

Giovanni Fattori created this etching, "Woman of the Gabbro," using ink on paper. The composition centres on a solitary figure, a woman rendered with a detailed and textured surface that contrasts with the open landscape behind her. The stark contrast between light and shadow lends a dramatic weight to the figure, inviting a reflection on her relationship with the environment. Consider how Fattori uses line and form to define not only the woman's figure but also her place within the broader socio-political narrative of late 19th-century Italy. The etching technique allows for a complex interplay of textures, from the rough terrain to the intricate patterns of her dress. The lack of color directs our attention to the tonal variations and the way the artist manipulates light to create depth and volume. The artist is clearly interested in the formal language of etching as a means to engage with questions of identity, place, and representation. This artwork does not simply depict a woman; it presents a structured analysis of form and space that invites ongoing interpretation.