La Walse, from Le Bon Genre n.d.

"La Walse" was created around 1818 by Hannah Humphrey, using etching and possibly some hand-coloring. This was a printmaking process well-suited to satire, allowing for the easy distribution of images lampooning social trends. Looking closely, you can see how the etched lines define the exaggerated postures and expressions of the dancers. The application of color, likely by hand, adds to the caricature, emphasizing the flushed faces and elaborate costumes. The print captures a moment of social commentary, poking fun at the perceived excesses of the waltz, a dance then considered scandalous due to its close physical contact. The choice of printmaking as a medium is significant. It allowed Humphrey to reach a broad audience, disseminating her critique of social mores beyond the elite circles depicted. The relatively low cost of production, compared to painting, made it an accessible form of social commentary, reflecting the burgeoning print culture of the time. This piece demonstrates how printmaking could serve as a tool for democratizing art and challenging social norms.