n. 820 Freedom and Brotherhood

This engraving, with such a narrow and elongated format (it opens towards large spaces and gives the observer the illusion of being at the centre), presents powerful columns, true refuge islands for communities of human beings. In this imaginary landscape, our eyes discover carefully engraved details, highlighted by delicate inking where silver-blue tones predominate; the etching, through successive etchings, highlights the different depths and gives strength to an airy atmosphere. Each column has its own style, the capitals cover elements of sumptuous richness. The characters are silhouetted against a crystalline background, the poses are casual and calm. The title is emblematic: freedom and brotherhood, words that we invoke and that have such a burdensome meaning... they propose a human ideal, that of tolerance and love for others. When hatred and violence surround us, freedom and brotherhood are true songs of hope to obtain a share of happiness on this earth. The earth... is not present in this engraving: no roads, no urban life, no annoying noise, columns without support points, the engraver wanted to favor the sky and its new inhabitants. How can we not emotionally evoke Baudelaire's lines in Elévation:

Heureux celui qui peut d’une aile vigoureuse

S’élancer vers les champs lumineux et sereins!