Cyrus Durand c. 19th century

Editor: Here we see Henry Duff Linton's portrait of Cyrus Durand. The etching has such a delicate quality, achieved with such fine lines. What catches your eye? Curator: The density of lines, and its orchestration to suggest the fall of light, are the most arresting elements. Notice the almost frantic hatching used to model the coat, and the subject’s hair, against the relatively calmer treatment of the face. What does this contrast suggest to you? Editor: Perhaps a tension between the subject's internal world and external presentation? I learned a lot today, thank you. Curator: Indeed. I, too, find myself intrigued by the dialogue between technique and the depiction of character.