Volwassen man, naar rechts 1802

Jan Chalon created this etching, "Volwassen man, naar rechts" sometime in the late 18th century. The small print shows a man gazing intently, his face framed by a soft cap and dark clothing. Notice how Chalon uses the etching technique to its fullest, creating a play of light and shadow that models the man's features and clothing. Look at the density of the lines around the face and cap, which gives volume and form to the figure. See how this is contrasted with the relative blankness of the background? The direction of the lines adds to the overall composition, guiding your eye around the artwork. Through simple lines and tonal variations, Chalon encapsulates the sitter’s likeness and character. His focus is on the intrinsic qualities of the medium, using line and tone to create an engaging composition. This etching invites us to appreciate the subtle artistry of printmaking.