Pierre Puvis de Chavannes, Portrait and Composition 1895

Marcellin Desboutin's 1895 etching *Portrait and Composition* depicts Pierre Puvis de Chavannes, a prominent French symbolist painter, seated in contemplation. The image showcases Desboutin's mastery of the etching technique, characterized by the use of strong lines and contrasting tones. Chavannes, renowned for his allegorical and mythological works, appears in the foreground while a small vignette of figures engaged in a classical scene adorns the background. This piece is a testament to the artistic relationship between the two artists, showcasing both their distinct styles and shared appreciation for classical themes. The etching, part of the Art Institute of Chicago's collection, provides a captivating glimpse into the world of late-nineteenth-century French art.