The Window Cleaner 1889

"The Window Cleaner" (1889), a drypoint etching by Theodore Roussel (1847-1926), depicts a figure cleaning a window from the inside. The figure is partially obscured by the windowpane, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue. The etching’s fine lines and delicate shading capture the subtle details of the building's facade and the figure's form. Roussel's work is known for its intimate portrayals of everyday life, often focusing on the quiet moments and unspoken stories of urban environments. This artwork, housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, exemplifies his talent for capturing the essence of fleeting moments.