What do you want? . . . c. 19th century

Editor: This is a print entitled "What do you want? . . ." by Paul Gavarni. The sharp lines create a somewhat unsettling scene. What do you see in this piece from a formal perspective? Curator: Observe the interplay of light and shadow, the contrast that defines the figures within the composition. Gavarni masterfully uses line weight to create depth and volume. Note the textures rendered solely through hatching and cross-hatching. How does this contribute to the narrative's intensity? Editor: The starkness definitely emphasizes the emotional distance between the figures. I hadn't considered how much the technique adds to that. Curator: Indeed. It exemplifies how formal elements work together to construct meaning. Editor: I'll certainly pay more attention to those details moving forward.