La Famille du Fermier 1745 - 1806

Jean-Honoré Fragonard made this print, La Famille du Fermier, using a technique called etching. Lines are incised into a metal plate with a sharp tool, then filled with ink and printed onto paper. The process yields a soft, velvety texture. This is especially visible in the contrast between light and shadow, which Fragonard masterfully employs to create depth and atmosphere. Notice how the varying densities of lines create tonal gradations, from the bright highlights on the figures to the deep shadows in the background. The labor of the printmaking process is often overlooked, but is essential to the overall aesthetic effect. The artist's hand is evident in every line, underscoring the connection between process and visual experience. By appreciating the craft of etching, we recognize the artistry inherent in this reproductive medium, challenging the traditional hierarchy between original artworks and their multiples.