The Bugle Call

Art Historical Context

**The Bugle Call** is a captivating etching in black ink on silk, created around 1880 by A. Courtney after A. Leunig. Measuring approximately 26.5 × 39 cm for the image alone, this print was mounted to board for stability and display, showcasing the delicate interplay of line and texture unique to late 19th-century printmaking. Housed in the National Gallery of Art's Corcoran Collection (Bequest of Frank B.istow), it exemplifies era's fascination with reproductive prints, where skilled etchers like Courtney faithfully interpreted original designs. Etching, an intaglio technique involving acid-etched metal plates, allowed for intricate details and tonal depth—perfect for capturing the resonant drama implied by the title. Printing on silk, rather than standard paper, was a luxurious choice, lending the work a soft, shimmering quality that enhanced its visual appeal for decorative or collector's items. This medium elevated prints from mere reproductions to elegant art objects, popular in Victorian parlors. As part of the CG-W department's print holdings, **The Bugle Call** highlights the technical innovation and cultural prestige of 1880s graphic arts, bridging fine art and accessible imagery for a broadening audience of enthusiasts.