4/6

About this artwork

collector's mark: Lugt 2228

Art Historical Context

"4/6" is a etching by Dutch artist Joannes Bemme created in 1802. Measuring just 190mm high by 144mm wide, intimate print is the fourth in a presumed series of six, showcasing Bemme's skill in the etching medium during the early 19th century. Etching, an intaglio technique where acid etches lines into a metal plate, allowed artists like Bemme to achieve expressive lines and subtle tones, making it ideal for reproductions or original compositions prized by collectors. Bemme, active in the Netherlands around the turn of the century, contributed to the rich tradition of printmaking that bridged Enlightenment precision with emerging Romantic sensibilities. This work's small scale suggests it was designed for private appreciation, perhaps as part of a collector's album. The presence of the Lugt 2228 mark—identified with the esteemed 19th-century collector Eugène Dutuit—adds layers of provenance, highlighting its value in connoisseur circles and underscoring the enduring appeal of such prints in European art history. Visitors will appreciate how "4/6" captures the artistry of etching's tactile depth, inviting close inspection to reveal Bemme's masterful linework from over two centuries ago.