19th century streetscape engraving - Aimé Dallemagne (1882-1971) 58/200 - 23¼" x 15¼"

A striking engraving from the early-twentieth century. The lively village streetscape is typical of villages in northeastern France. Note the children milking goats in the foreground!

Note the red monogram, "DA" and the signature in the drawing, just under the dog that reads "Dallemagne" for Aimé Dallemagne (1882-1971). Framed behind glass, the print edition is number 58 of 200. See last image for entry in the Benezit Dictionary of Artists. 

Aimé Dallemagne was a French painter, watercolorist, draftsman, and etcher born on March 16, 1882, in Saint-Germain-en-Laye. He studied under Amand Gautier and Armand Félix Marie Jobbé-Duval and was a member of the Société des Artistes Français. Dallemagne exhibited regularly from 1905, receiving multiple awards. His work is known for its precise line work and economy of detail, focusing on architectural subjects like castles and churches. He passed away on June 23, 1971, in Boulogne-Billancourt.

Engraving, an art form involving incising designs onto hard surfaces to make prints, has a rich history that evolved significantly in the 19th century, especially in France. During this period, advancements like the introduction of durable steel plates allowed for more detailed and longer-lasting prints. The era also saw the rise of lithography, complementing traditional engraving techniques. French artists in the 19th century, influenced by movements such as Romanticism and Impressionism, utilized engraving to express dramatic and emotional themes. Notable figures like Eugène Delacroix, Édouard Manet, and Edgar Degas pushed the boundaries of engraving to capture the essence of modern life and fleeting moments. Additionally, the 19th century was a golden age for illustrated books and periodicals, with engravings playing a crucial role in enhancing the visual appeal and accessibility of printed materials. This period solidified engraving's place as both an artistic and practical medium in French art and publishing.