Lourdes, la paralytique (2e planche) (Lourdes, the Paralytic) (second plate)
1912
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From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1912
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This etching depicts a poignant scene of a paralytic woman being attended to by two figures, likely a priest and a nun, in the foreground. The woman's body is slumped forward, with her head resting on the lap of the nun, who gently supports her. The priest stands beside them, his hands clasped together in a gesture of prayer or blessing. In the background, a group of people can be seen, although their features are not clearly defined. The overall mood of the etching is one of quiet reverence and compassion, with the artist capturing the tender moment of care and devotion. The use of drypoint and etching techniques adds a sense of texture and depth to the image, drawing the viewer's eye to the central figures. For more information on the artist behind this work, explore the art of Jean-Louis Forain.
