Gilline met luit 1869

Editor: So, this is "Gilline met luit" or "Gilline with Lute" by Louis Jaugey, created in 1869. It's an etching. The woman looks like she's lost in her own world. There is also a lot of black ink creating deep contrast in this piece; what strikes you most about this print? Curator: Isn’t it evocative? I think Jaugey, using those swirling lines of etching, captured a secret moment, almost voyeuristic, where art imitates, or perhaps even anticipates, life. Those shadows... almost concealing yet defining. Notice how they cling to the wooden planks and frame La Gilline. Does the darkness accentuate the beauty and musicality emanating from our central figure? Does it allow one to focus less on technical ability, and lean further into emotive and atmospheric intention? Editor: I see what you mean about the "secret moment." Is it considered more Realist or Romantic because of the shadowy figures? Curator: A superb question. While Jaugey adheres to Realism by portraying La Gilline truthfully and without unnecessary ornamentation, I feel there is a dreamlike romanticism with the blurred background and concentrated shading. The dark tonality contributes to a sentimental story – as if she may or may not actually exist at all! The blurring pushes one into questioning everything beyond La Gilline. A balance! I always wonder, are these blurred portions due to Jaugey being tired, rushed, or experimental with the scene, or is something bigger going on? Perhaps these types of artistic "flaws" or explorations are beautiful testaments of the period. What do you think? Editor: It’s funny; I hadn’t considered it experimental before, more like the norm! Seeing both realism and romanticism at play definitely helps appreciate this work. Curator: Wonderful! And remember that with any good piece of art, there can be both experimentation and genius. And as Jaugey shows here, these aspects work together, to conjure feelings and sensations. A great end result. Editor: I'll definitely keep that in mind. Thanks!