Misery 1886

Paul-Albert Besnard’s print, Misery, is made using etching, a process where lines are incised into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. This intaglio technique is here used to depict a scene of domestic despair. The stark tonal contrasts, achieved through the density of etched lines, create a palpable sense of darkness and confinement. Look closely, and you will see the fineness of the lines, a testament to Besnard's skill. The labor-intensive process underscores the emotional weight of the subject matter; the artist's hand, through the act of etching, mirrors the burden of misery itself. Prints such as these were widely circulated in the late 19th and early 20th century, making art more accessible but also potentially commodifying suffering. By focusing on the material and the making, we get a richer understanding of this work, beyond its immediate aesthetic or narrative impact. It encourages us to think about how artistic techniques can amplify social commentary.