The Window Cleaner, Chelsea 1888/89 |
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Original etching.
Signed in pencil on the tab and inscribed by Roussel verso.
Ref: Roussel & Mackay 22 ii/ii; Hausberg 24 ii/ii
S 206 x 133 mm (including tab); P & I 202 x 133 mm
SOLD
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Exceptionally fine impression printed in warm brownish-black ink with clear detail and wonderful tonal range. A particularly beautiful signed proof in the completed state of the plate, from the only edition of about 30 impressions in total. Further inscribed by T.C.Roussel “Given to Miss M. Stevens. Th.Rl.” in pencil verso.
Theodore Casimir Roussel moved to England in 1874 and set up his studio in Chelsea where he produced some of the most delightful topographical etchings of the area. This charming study of a maid cleaning the windows of a Chelsea town-house at the corner of Gunter Grove reflects the influence of J.A.McN. Whistler, who had sought Theodore Roussel out, first meeting him in 1885. Whistler is known to have had a high regard for Roussel as a follower of his style - it was Whistler’s influence which caused T.C.Roussel to commit himself fully towards printmaking.
This beautiful example of T.C.Roussel’s work demonstrates the exquisite care and refinement which the artist would lavish upon the printing of his proofs. Theodore Casimir Roussel was much influenced by Whistler in his printmaking and took to trimming his proofs to the platemark, leaving a tab for the signature, in the Master’s manner. This excellent proof impression has been signed in pencil on the tab accordingly. On cream laid paper with elaborate Britannia watermark. One or two small brown marks, otherwise very fine original condition. |
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