Sporting Style (Rosamund) 1916

Albert Belleroche made this print of Rosamund, called Sporting Style, at some point in his life, using lithography on paper. Looking at this print, you can really see Belleroche's process; it's all about these delicate, almost scribbled lines. It's like he's thinking out loud with his pencil, figuring out the form as he goes. And the way he uses the grey tone of the lithograph, it's so subtle, almost ghostly. Take a look at the way he’s rendered the tie. It’s just a few quick strokes, but it completely captures the way the fabric folds and drapes. The light catches the surface, and the shadowy areas have this almost velvety softness. This focus on light and shadow reminds me a little of Vuillard and the Intimists, who were also exploring everyday scenes with a similar sense of quiet observation. It’s like he’s inviting us to slow down and notice the beauty in the ordinary.