Boulevard d'Iseghem, Ostende 1889

James Ensor made this print of the Boulevard d'Iseghem in Ostend using etching, a printmaking technique with a long history. The image is created by drawing into a wax-covered metal plate with a sharp needle to expose the metal. The plate is then immersed in acid, which bites into the exposed lines. The longer the plate remains in the acid, the deeper the lines, and the more ink they will hold when printed. Ensor has used this process to create a richly detailed and atmospheric scene. The fine lines of the etching capture the architectural details of the buildings lining the boulevard. The sky is filled with delicate strokes, suggesting movement and depth. Look closely and you can see the tonal variations achieved, and the amount of work involved in the production process. Ultimately, the success of the print relies not only on the artist's skill but also on the precision of the printing process. By attending to these material facts, we can fully appreciate Ensor's art.