Old Woman and Two Children c. 17th century

Editor: This etching by Jacques Dassonville, called "Old Woman and Two Children," is quite small. The cross-hatching creates a busy background. What do you make of the composition? Curator: Note how the composition adheres to a pyramid-like structure, grounding the figures. Dassonville uses line and form to create depth despite the etching's diminutive scale. What impact does the texture have? Editor: It almost feels chaotic. Is that intentional, or a limitation of the etching process? Curator: The density of line work certainly contributes to a feeling of unease, perhaps reflecting the scene's inherent tension. The artist uses line to lead the eye. Editor: That’s interesting. I hadn't considered the technique contributing to the overall mood. Curator: Indeed. Examining the formal elements allows us deeper insights into the artist’s intention.