Artwork
Sketch Plate
Sketch Plate is an ink print by Théophile Alexandre Steinlen. It dates from 1902 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Sketch Plate is a drypoint print created by Théophile Alexandre Steinlen in 1902. It is a proof, a test version of the print, showcasing the artist's graphic style.
Subject & Meaning
The print features a sketch of three faces and a dress, rendered in quick, scratchy lines. The subjects are not clearly defined, with the top face blurred, while the middle face appears to be a woman wearing a hat, and the bottom face is an older man with a beard.
Technique & Style
Steinlen employed the drypoint technique, scratching a metal plate to create ink lines. The resulting image is characterized by rough, uneven lines, giving the impression of hurried notes. This style is reflective of the decorative and illustrative trends of the period.
History & Provenance
Théophile Alexandre Steinlen was a Swiss-born French painter and printmaker associated with Art Nouveau. His work often reflected his involvement in left-wing circles, and he frequently contributed to anarchist and socialist publications.
Artist & collection
Artist
Théophile Alexandre Steinlen (November 10, 1859 – December 13, 1923), was a Swiss-born French Art Nouveau painter and printmaker. He was politically engaged and collaborated with the anarchist and socialist press.
Le repos du modèle (1ère planche) (The Model's Rest) (first plate)
Three Veiled Women (Trois femmes voilées)
Le Traite des blanches (The White Slave Trade)
The Piano
On the Stage (Sur la scène)
The Encounter (Recontre)![The Fitting [recto], by Mary Cassatt](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/mary-cassatt--the-fitting-recto--bdf1c75791eec1a5-w320.webp)
The Fitting [recto]
Le Traite des blanches (The White Slave Trade)
Draped Model
Weary
The Velvet Dress
Sheet of Sketches