Portrait of Comte Lepic

Art Historical Context

Step into the intimate world of 19th-century French printmaking with *Portrait of Comte Lepic (1876), a drypoint by Marcellinboutin featuring his friend, the artist and Comte Ludovic Lepic. This sixth state of seven captures Lepic in a candid, lively pose, accompanied by his beloved dogs—a nod to the count's passion for etching animal subjects and his bohemian circle. Desboutin, a versatile painter and printmaker linked to Edgar Degas and the Impressionists, showcases his skill in this intimate portrait, blending portraiture with the everyday charm of pets. Drypoint, an intaglio technique where the artist scratches directly into a copper plate, produces the rich, velvety burr lines that give this print its tactile depth and immediacy—far softer than traditional engraving. As one of seven progressive states, this impression reveals Desboutin's meticulous refinements, from initial sketches to final details, offering collectors a glimpse into the creative process. Housed in The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Drawings and Prints department (Rogers Fund, 1922), it measures a modest 17 5/8 × 13 1/4 inches, yet packs profound artistic weight. This work highlights the camaraderie among French artists in the 1870s, when etching revived as a medium for personal expression amid the rise of Impressionism. Lepic's presence, with his dogs, evokes a sense of unpretentious genius, making it a delightful window into their vibrant social world.

About the Artist

Ludovic Lepic|Marcellin Desboutin (French|French) · 1839 |1823 –1889 |1902

French, Paris 1839–1889 Paris|French, Cérilly 1823–1902 Nice