Odin c. 19th century

Editor: This is "Odin" by Thomas Landseer, made sometime in the 19th century. It's an engraving of a dog, and I'm struck by how soft the rendering of the fur is. What do you see in terms of composition and technique? Curator: The tonality is exquisitely controlled, would you agree? Note how Landseer uses the medium to create subtle gradations of light and shadow, giving the dog’s coat a palpable texture. The strategic use of chiaroscuro directs our gaze. Editor: Yes, the contrast really makes the dog's eyes pop! I hadn't thought about how the lighting directs me to look at certain areas. Curator: Exactly. The formal elements—line, tone, and composition—work together to create a compelling image. Consider how the artist utilizes the intrinsic qualities of the print-making process. Editor: Thanks for pointing that out, I'll definitely look for that in other engravings.