Le Pont Saint-Michel, plate twelve from Le Long de la Seine et des Boulevards Possibly 1890 - 1910

Auguste-Louis Lepère made this print of the Pont Saint-Michel in Paris using a technique called etching. A metal plate, likely copper, is coated with a waxy ground, and the artist scratches through this layer to expose the metal. The plate is then immersed in acid, which bites into the exposed lines. Lepère’s skill lies in his manipulation of this process. Notice the varying line weights, achieved by controlling the depth of the acid bite. This adds depth and contrast to the scene, capturing the bustle of Parisian life on the bridge, and the solid stone construction. Prints like this were made in multiples, intended for a broad audience. Unlike unique artworks, they democratized art ownership, reflecting the rise of a middle class with disposable income and an appetite for images of modern life. The amount of labor that Lepère invested in this complex etching, reflects his dedication to his craft and audience.