Brandy Seller 1737

"Brandy Seller" is an etching by Anne Claude Philippe Caylus, created in 1737. The print depicts a woman seated and offering brandy for sale. Her basket is full of bottles and she holds a glass in her right hand. This work, like much of Caylus’ output, is an example of genre painting, a style popular in 18th century Europe that depicted everyday life. The print, which is now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, was likely commissioned by a wealthy patron who enjoyed such depictions of life in their time. The use of strong contrasts between light and dark adds depth and detail to the scene, revealing the artist's masterful use of etching technique.