Manda's Cabin c. 1930

Elizabeth O'Neill Verner created this etching, "Manda's Cabin," using metal plate and acid. The effect is an image of great detail and tonal range, capturing a humble dwelling in the American South. The etching process itself is laborious. The artist protects a metal plate with a waxy ground, draws through it to expose the metal, and then immerses the plate in acid. This eats away at the exposed lines, creating grooves that will hold ink. Verner's skill is evident in the fineness of the lines, allowing for delicate shading and texture. Look at the Spanish moss hanging from the tree – it’s rendered with remarkable precision. The image also speaks volumes about labor and class. The cabin suggests a life of hard work and simple means. It is an important reminder that the story of art is entwined with the stories of everyday people and places, and the skills of printmaking can elevate these stories to a place of prominence.