Two Horses in the Woods 1840 - 1850

Charles Jacque made this print, Two Horses in the Woods, using etching, a process where lines are incised into a metal plate with acid, then inked and printed. The delicate, almost fragile quality of the etching mirrors the scene it depicts. Look at the intricate web of lines that form the trees and foliage; the soft gradations of tone suggesting light filtering through the woods. Etching, unlike painting, demands a certain level of planning, but can also allow for spontaneity. Jacque’s skill lies in balancing control with freedom, resulting in an image that feels both precise and evocative. The marks of the process are evident – the fine lines, the subtle textures created by the acid. These aren't simply representational but contribute to the overall aesthetic effect, reminding us that art is not just about what is depicted, but how it is made. The labor of the artist is embedded in every line and shadow. Appreciating the craft involved allows us to see beyond the surface, and recognize the hand of the maker.