Composition de F. Millet (Composition by F. Millet)

Composition de F. Millet (Composition by F. Millet) is an etching created by the renowned French artist Jean-François Millet in 1869. This striking example of printmaking, executed in rich black ink on laid paper, showcases Millet's proficiency not only as a celebrated painter but also as a master of graphic arts during the latter part of his career. The execution date, 1869, places the work centrally within the productive period spanning 1851 to 1875, a time characterized by the rise of Realism and the increasing visibility of the Barbizon School, with which Millet was closely associated.

This specific impression is technically significant, created as a facing piece to a corresponding composition by Albert Merat. This arrangement suggests the work was intended either for critical comparison or inclusion in a collaborative publication or portfolio focused on formal compositional study. Millet, best known for his empathetic depictions of peasant life and rural labor, often translated his compositional ideas into various media, using the demanding process of etching to explore line, tone, and shadow with precision.

As a high-quality example of 19th-century French prints, the piece demonstrates the deep textures and rich shadow work achievable through the intaglio process. The careful handling of the etching plate is visible in the detailed line work on the laid paper, confirming the exceptional technical quality of the piece. This artwork is held within the distinguished collection of the National Gallery of Art. Due to its age and historical context, high-resolution scans and prints of this important 1869 work are often available through the museum's commitment to making historical material accessible to the public domain.