Head of a Woman 1767

This “Head of a Woman” was made by Louis-Marin Bonnet in the 18th century, using a technique known as pastel-manner engraving. This combined etching and engraving with the use of multiple plates to imitate the soft, chalky appearance of pastel drawings. This wasn’t just a technical feat; it reflected a larger shift in artistic values. While the academic art world prized oil painting, pastel became increasingly popular, especially among female artists. Bonnet's printmaking allowed for wider distribution of these images. Look closely, and you'll see how the intricate network of lines creates a velvety texture. The subtle gradations of tone, achieved through careful layering of ink, give the impression of depth and volume. This wasn’t just reproduction, but translation, requiring both technical skill and aesthetic sensitivity. By embracing printmaking as a fine art, Bonnet challenged traditional hierarchies. He elevated a so-called reproductive medium to a creative practice. It's a reminder that artistic value isn't just about materials, but also about the labor, skill, and social context that shapes them.