Standing Man Leaning against a Plinth, from Figures de modes

Standing Man Leaning against a Plinth, from Figures de modes is an exquisite etching by Jean Antoine Watteau French, 1684-1721, created during the seminal period between 1705 and 1715. This black print, rendered on ivory laid paper, serves as a significant example of French graphic arts during the early 18th century, a time marking the transition from the formality of the Baroque era to the playful sensibility of Rococo. The print originates from the series Figures de modes, a collection focused on contemporary fashion and posture, reflecting the social customs and stylistic concerns of the elite in France.

Watteau, known primarily for his celebrated fêtes galantes and lyrical depictions of aristocratic pleasure, frequently utilized printmaking to capture individual studies and figures in the current Parisian dress. In this specific work, the refined technique of etching allows the artist to achieve delicate lines and sharp detail in the rendering of the standing man’s costume and confident demeanor. The figure is depicted leaning against a classical plinth, emphasizing a casual yet mannered pose typical of the period’s high society portraiture. The execution highlights the subtle interplay of light and shadow, demonstrating Watteau’s mastery of draftsmanship.

This piece demonstrates the sophisticated observational style that heavily influenced later generations of European artists. Watteau’s dedication to capturing fashionable poses made his prints highly sought after by collectors and students alike. This important work resides in the distinguished collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. As this image falls within the public domain, high-quality reproductions of this foundational print are widely accessible for academic and artistic study.