Dordrecht 1867 - 1910

Etha Fles created this etching, "Dordrecht," using a monochromatic palette to capture an intimate view of a small town courtyard. The dense network of fine lines gives the image a rich, textural quality. The buildings loom closely, their forms softened by the artist's delicate rendering, and the trees and foliage introduce organic shapes that contrast with the rigid architecture. Notice how Fles balances light and shadow to create depth, inviting you to explore the intricacies of the composition. This work exemplifies a formal interplay between nature and structure. It evokes the sensation of being enclosed yet also hints at freedom and growth through the presence of verdant life amidst stone walls. It’s a study in contrasts, revealing the interplay between the urban and natural worlds.