Simon Butler (Indian Trails, vol. II)

Simon Butler (Indian Trails, vol. II) is a compelling lithograph created by Jean-François Millet in 1852. This work showcases Millet’s versatility, as he moved beyond his well-known oil paintings of rural life to engage with the demanding techniques of graphic arts. This specific example represents the second (final) state of the image, printed using a tonal plate on chine collé. This exacting technique involves printing the matrix onto a thin, delicate sheet of paper (chine) which is then simultaneously adhered to a heavier support sheet during the printing process, allowing for exceptional preservation of fine lines and a notable richness in the dark tones.

The subject matter, likely intended as part of a published narrative series given the subtitle "(Indian Trails, vol. II)," depicts a group of Men alongside their Horses. While Millet is primarily associated with French realism and the arduous lives of peasants, this piece suggests an exploration of broader narrative or perhaps literary themes touching upon American frontier mythology or other sources popular in the mid-19th century. The prominence of the horses implies themes of travel, endurance, or the exploration of uncultivated lands, topics that often permeated the global imagination during this era.

Millet’s technical expertise in handling the lithographic process is particularly evident in the controlled execution and the subtle depth achieved through the tonal plate. This important graphic work resides in the esteemed permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, assuring its preservation and continued study. Since this 1852 print is now established in the public domain, it affords researchers and enthusiasts global access to examine Millet’s diverse output and appreciation for various forms of prints beyond his celebrated canvases.