The Road (La route) c. 1878 - 1880

Edgar Degas created this evocative print using etching, a process involving careful labor. The plate was likely made of copper or zinc. Degas would have coated it with a waxy, acid-resistant ground before drawing his composition with a sharp needle. The incised lines expose the metal, allowing acid to bite into it, creating grooves. Ink is then forced into these lines, the surface wiped clean, and the image transferred to paper under high pressure with a printing press. Look closely, and you can see the material influence the work's appearance. The velvety blacks and soft greys result from the etched lines' ability to hold ink. It is important to note the amount of work involved in the production process, each print requiring careful preparation and skilled execution. By embracing printmaking, Degas expanded the possibilities of his art, making it more accessible and reproducible. Ultimately, understanding the materials and processes reveals the true depth of the artist's vision, bridging the gap between fine art and craft.