"Illustration Nouvelle 4e. Annee 1872" by Ferdinand Roybet, Fr., (1840-1920) Drypoint

"Illustration Nouvelle 4e. Annee 1872" by Ferdinand Roybet, Fr., (1840-1920) DrypointEtching, 1872, Ed. unknown, 9 5 16 x 6 3 16, title page, on cream laid paper watermarked ED & Cie. A seasoned portrait and genre painter and etcher, Roybet's "potent" image, aside from the obvious sexual symbolism, is an interesting combination of motifs. We see of course the male figure with phallic cannon at his side, and mallet in his hand forging the protective armour for a strong France which lays at his feet . The little owl is often a symbol of

7-15/16 x 9-13/16

12-5/8 x 20

on thin buff laid simili japan

signed & dated with initials in the plate

landmark with it's gilded bronze glistening in the dark

The inclusion of the tiny fish in the dew drops is wonderful

on stiff warm white wove paper

mat line and stains in upper image

with a grand sweeping gesture

Alden Weir by the artist in pencil

Etching Club

was rendered in at least two different prints by the artist