Portret van de oudste zoon van Victor-Charles Mahillon 1897

Auguste Danse made this portrait of Victor-Charles Mahillon's eldest son using etching, a printmaking technique that relies on the corrosive action of acid on a metal plate. The image is built up through meticulous lines and shading, achieved by repeatedly exposing the plate to acid, allowing the artist to control the depth and darkness of the etched lines. This exacting process demands skilled labor and time, marking a contrast to more spontaneous artistic gestures. The result has a delicate and intricate appearance which we can observe closely, from the texture of the subject's hair to the folds of his jacket. Here, the etching becomes more than just a means of reproduction, with the intensive labor involved adding a layer of value to the print. This challenges our traditional ideas of fine art, inviting us to consider the artistry inherent in skillful craft.