The Singers 1845

Charles Jacque created this print, titled "The Singers," using etching and drypoint. Born in Paris during a time of significant social upheaval following the French Revolution, Jacque's artistic path was marked by a shift from military service to art, reflecting the changing opportunities for different classes of people in 19th-century France. Here, we see two men immersed in song, one playing the guitar, the other holding sheet music. There is a sense of camaraderie and shared emotion. The etching captures a moment of leisure, but also hints at the cultural importance of music in everyday life, particularly as a form of expression and community building. The presence of a glass and pipe on the table suggests a casual, intimate setting, perhaps a tavern. Jacque's choice to depict such scenes reflects an interest in the lives of ordinary people, marking a departure from more traditional, aristocratic subjects in art. "The Singers" is an intimate glimpse into the cultural and social life of 19th-century France, reminding us of the universal human need for connection through art and music.