◇ Rabbits

"Les Lapins" (Rabbits) is a work created by Henri-Charles Guérard, a French printmaker and engraver. The rabbits woodcut print was published in 1893 as part of the second album of "L'Estampe originale," a series that showcased innovative prints and graphic arts by various artists of the period. 

The print has a bold and graphic style due to the carving technique, which removes sections of a wood block to create an image that can be inked and printed. Guérard's woodcut has strong contrasts between dark and light areas, characteristic of this medium, to depict the rabbits in a stylized manner.

Why We Picked It
Given its creation period, this piece likely draws from late 19th-century art movements such as Symbolism and Japonisme, which embraced woodcut techniques and nature themes. The art merges the introspective, dream-like imagery of Symbolism with the elegant, nature-inspired aesthetics of Japanese art, resulting in a visually striking piece. The composition has an interesting transition from dark to light and back to dark. Produced on wove paper, also known as velin, the woodcut benefits from its uniform texture and quality.

During this era, there was a resurgence of interest in nature and symbolism, as artists aimed to convey deeper emotional and philosophical themes. Rabbits, associated with innocence, fertility, renewal, and the cycle of life, were common motifs in symbolic art. Japonisme reflects the cross-cultural exchange and artistic experimentation that defined late 19th-century France.

About the Artist
Henri-Charles Guérard (1846–1897) was a notable French painter, engraver, and printmaker, renowned for his innovative and diverse artistic contributions during the late 19th century. Associated with the French avant-garde, he is best remembered for his etchings, which displayed a wide range of subjects from landscapes and scenes of daily life to more whimsical and imaginative compositions. His work often drew inspiration from the natural beauty of regions like Bretagne, reflecting the rugged coastlines and vibrant culture that influenced many artists of his time.