Coucher de soleil 1853 - 1858

Félix Bracquemond created this etching titled "Coucher de soleil." Look closely and you'll see the distinctive mark-making of the etching process. To create this print, the artist would have coated a metal plate with a waxy, acid-resistant ground. Using a sharp needle, he scratched away the ground to expose the metal beneath, then bathed the plate in acid. The longer the acid bit into the metal, the deeper and darker the lines would appear in the final print. Bracquemond's labor-intensive process allowed for the subtle gradations of tone, capturing the delicate play of light and shadow in the landscape. This intricate process, with its roots in both craft and industrial production, elevates the print from a mere reproduction to an artwork in its own right. By considering the materials, tools, and techniques, we gain a deeper appreciation for the labor involved in its creation and its cultural significance.