La Discorde 1886

Félix Bracquemond created this etching, titled 'La Discorde,' using black ink on paper. The composition presents a scene of disarray, a dramatic interplay of light and shadow setting the tone. We see winged figures in various states of distress around a classical structure, suggesting a narrative steeped in allegory. The artist skillfully uses hatching and cross-hatching to create depth and texture, enhancing the emotional impact of the scene. The dense foliage contrasts with the smooth surfaces of the architectural elements. This reflects the late 19th-century Symbolist movement, which sought to express subjective emotions and ideas through symbolic imagery. This evokes a sense of unease and disruption, challenging conventional notions of harmony. The emphasis on tonal contrasts and intricate detail invites a closer look, prompting us to consider the deeper meanings embedded within Bracquemond's visual language. The discordant relationships between forms destabilize established meanings.