International studio (34.1908)

Studio-Talk


‘'THE OLD ABBEY, TRIESTE” (ETCHING)

BY MARINO M. LUSY

example. It is in a dingy corner of an old street
near Trieste, and to the casual observer there
Mould seem to be no special attraction in this
ancient building; but the artist has treated the
theme with such feeling that it is seen under quite
a new aspect.

The same simplicity, dignity, and repose per-
vade the etchings La Grande Place, Fumes,
and San Vincente del Recuerdo. Besides these
three plates he has executed a large and
varied number in which the same qualities are
revealed. Lusy is an admirer of the Dutch and
English schools of etching. Mr. Brangwyn’s work
especially has been of value to him as an artist,
and he is a warm admirer of it.

The snow-scene drawing, reproduced on p. 250,
is perhaps hardly entitled to be called a work of
art; but it is very interesting as an example of
what is called “ tooth-brush ” technique. Con-
sidering the simplicity of the means employed the
results are admirable. The paper is prepared by
covering all parts which are to be lefc free with a
thin solution of gum arabic, and when the picture
is finished this is washed away with peifectly pure
cold water. Any colour may be taken provided it
is insoluble in water. In this particular case the
artist used Indian ink. A very hard toothbrush is
chosen, and dipped lightly into the colour, and the
finger drawn gently along so that the drops fall on
the point required. No stencils are used, and
great care must therefore be taken to keep the