Guardhouse 1901

Gustave Leheutre made this etching, Guardhouse, with ink on paper. The artist lays down a network of delicate lines, a bit like handwriting, describing a landscape with buildings, trees, and water. There is so much to explore in this small picture. The image is printed in a muted range of grays and blacks, and Leheutre uses the thinnest lines to build up the scene. The marks are so fine and close together, you can almost feel the burr of the etching. Look at the way the artist uses tiny flicks to suggest the movement of water, it’s full of energy. It reminds me of Whistler's etchings, but with a looser, more playful touch. It's like Leheutre is sketching with acid, embracing the happy accidents along the way. All in all, Guardhouse feels more like a fleeting impression than a detailed record.