Le lancé 

Charles Jacque made ‘Le lancé’ using a printmaking technique. The density of the etched lines, and the way they create tone, gives us a real sense of depth. Think about the labor involved: the meticulous drawing on the plate, the biting of the acid, the careful inking and printing. All these processes impart a certain character to the image. But there’s also the labor represented within the picture itself – the hunting of animals for sport. In 19th-century France, hunting was often associated with aristocracy. Although by Jacque’s time, wealth was increasingly determined by commerce and industry. Either way, we see these figures on horseback, dogs in tow, and recognize that their privilege stems from wealth, which allows the leisure to pursue sport. This image speaks to hierarchies that were literally etched into the social fabric. Ultimately, considering the materials, the making, and the context is crucial to fully understand the meaning of ‘Le lancé’ and challenge traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.