The Triumphal Arch
1770
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1770
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This etching shows a man in a wide-brimmed hat walking a staff, standing next to a small dog. Behind him is a crumbling stone arch with a broken column, surrounded by tangled trees and bushes. The ground is uneven, with rocks and scattered leaves. The artist used fine lines to create deep shadows and textures, like the rough bark of trees and the folds of the man’s coat. This style was common in etchings of the time. Next, look up etching to see how artists like this made detailed prints.