Bust of a Woman Wearing a Pince-nez (Wife of the Artist) 1870 - 1880

Théodule Ribot made this bust of his wife using black chalk and stumping on paper. These are not particularly high-flown materials, but they are well suited to Ribot's naturalistic, even earthy sensibility. Looking closely, you can see how the chalk is applied in layers, giving a subtle sense of depth to the figure. The stumping technique—using a rolled paper tool to smudge the chalk—softens the lines and creates a sense of atmosphere. Ribot clearly knew how to coax the most out of a humble medium. Think about the social context here: black chalk was an accessible material, far less expensive than oils. Ribot’s choice reflects his commitment to a direct, unpretentious form of artmaking. He was part of a generation of artists who challenged the traditional hierarchy of genres, elevating everyday subjects and materials. It’s a reminder that great art can be made with simple means, focusing on the dignity of ordinary life.