Le Journal. The Newspaper. by James J. J. Tissot, 1836-1902

James J. J. Tissot, 1836-1902
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Le Journal. The Newspaper.

Original etching with drypoint in black ink. 1883. Signed with the artist's red monogram stamp. Signed and dated in the plate. From the only edition of c.200 impressions. Printed at the studio of Delâtre, Paris 1883.
Ref: Wentworth - Tissot Prints no 73. Tissot's catalogue 75.

Excellent very rich strong impression. On pale cream laid hollande paper. Excellent condition. Full margins. Sheet: 22 x 14 5/8ins. Plate: 14 7/8 x 11 1/2ins ( 378x293mm).

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The theme of a young woman reading was a popular one in late 19th century French. Tissot also made a pastel version of this same composition (now in the Musée d'Orsay in Paris) and a comparison of the two is revealing about his attitude to etching as a medium. The general pose is identical (although reversed from the pastel to the etching) but what is interesting is the treatment of the background. In the pastel it is blank, whereas in the etching it is completely worked-over with the pattern of the chestnut leaves. It is in many ways the leaves in the background, and the way that the pattern of their shapes contrasts with the richness of the fur hat and coat-collar, leaving the face as a pale highlight in the centre, which gives the etching its very special and rather mysterious atmosphere.

Tissot was very well aware that it was the combination of linearity, texture and tone which gives etching its unique appeal to the visual emotions. Thus, whereas pastel is soft, etching has an incisive strength which can be used to particular effect in linear patterns. This is very clearly demonstrated in his handling of the etched version of 'The Newspaper'.