L'eau (Water) 1863

Jules Ferdinand Jacquemart's 1863 etching, "L'eau (Water)," presents a still life arrangement of everyday objects, emphasizing the simplicity and quietude of domestic life. The composition features a bucket of water, a pitcher, a basin, a broom, and a cloth, all rendered in meticulous detail. The artist's masterful use of hatching and cross-hatching creates a sense of depth and texture, highlighting the interplay of light and shadow across the surfaces of the objects. This intimate portrayal of everyday objects is characteristic of the Realist movement, which sought to depict ordinary life with honesty and fidelity. "L'eau" is a prime example of Jacquemart's skillful handling of etching and his interest in capturing the beauty of the commonplace.