Figuren in een herberg in de buurt van Lyon c. 1863

Antoine Vollon created this print, "Figures in a Tavern near Lyon," using etching techniques. The eye is immediately drawn into the shadowy, enclosed space, where the composition is built upon a stark contrast between light and darkness. Figures gather around a long, sturdy table, their forms emerging from the gloom, defined by selective lighting that emphasizes their gestures and interactions. Vollon masterfully uses the etching medium to play with tonal gradations, creating depth and atmosphere. The rough texture and the density of lines add a tactile quality, emphasizing the ruggedness of the scene. We see a clear intention to capture the essence of daily life, reflecting an interest in realism. This piece challenges classical notions of beauty, instead focusing on the unvarnished depiction of everyday existence. The visual elements—the composition, the use of light and shadow, and the textured surface—combine to create an experience that resonates beyond mere representation.