Portret van Méryon weergegeven als beeldhouwwerk in reliëf

About this artwork

Schenking van R. Vroom-van Beers

Art Historical Context

Félix Bracquemond's *Portret van Méry weergegeven als beeldwwerk in reliëf* (Portrait of Méryon Depicted as a Sculpture in), created in 1854, the likeness of fellow French etcher Charles Mery in an inventive, classical style. Rendered as a low-relief sculpture reminiscent of ancient medallions, this intimate portrait honors Meryon, whose dramatic etchings of Paris would later cement his legacy. Bracquemond, a pivotal figure in 19th-century printmaking, showcases his friendship with Meryon amid the etching revival in France, where artists drew inspiration from masters like Rembrandt. Etched on a modest plate measuring 122 × 89 mm, the work exemplifies the precision of etching—a technique involving acid biting into a metal plate to create rich, textured lines. This medium allowed Bracquemond to mimic the dimensionality of sculpture, blending portraiture with illusionistic depth. Such experimentation highlighted etching's potential as a fine art, bridging painting, sculpture, and graphics during a time of artistic innovation. Generously donated by R. Vroom-van Beers, this gem invites visitors to appreciate the camaraderie and technical virtuosity of mid-19th-century printmakers, offering a window into their creative world.

About the Artist

Félix Bracquemond · 1833–1914

French, Paris 1833–1914 Sèvres