1913

Portrait of the Artist's Father Reading

French, 1875 - 1963

A comparison of this trial proof with an impression of the same print from the numbered edition of thirty-two demonstrates the effect Villon was working to achieve in this composition of crossing and converging planes behind a curtain of vertical lines. In the proof, the veil of vertical lines gives the work an overall tonal quality; the darkened edges of the planes, made velvety with the drypoint burr, emerge subtly from the shadows. Villon also left a thin residue of ink in areas where there are no lines, thus eliminating any harsh contrasts. In the later impression, with its stronger juxtapositions of black and white, the planes appear crystalline. Distinctly shaped planes appear to encounter one another more forcefully, and stronger contrasts lend the screen of vertical lines a less evocative effect than in the proof. It is interesting to consider which result Villon found most satisfying as the impressions were inked, wiped, and printed.