The Hatpin (Berthe Morisot's Daughter and Her Cousin), 1st plate

The Hatpin (Berthe Morisot's Daughter and Her Cousin), 1st plate by Pierre-Auguste Renoir is a compelling example of the artist's foray into reproductive media during the late 19th century. Created between 1889 and 1899, this intimate etching showcases Renoir’s skill in capturing character through precise line work rather than the vibrant color palettes for which he is most known. The technique of etching involves drawing a needle through a waxy ground applied to a metal plate, followed by acid application to "bite" the lines into the metal surface. This meticulous process provided the celebrated Impressionist master with a distinct method for rendering texture, shadow, and light, offering a stark contrast to his characteristic loose brushwork in oils.

The subject matter focuses on two young women from Renoir's close social circle: Julie Manet, the daughter of fellow Impressionist Berthe Morisot, and her cousin. Renoir often depicted the private lives and familial bonds of the French bourgeoisie, lending this print a historical and personal dimension crucial to understanding artistic culture in France during this period. The composition is tight, centering on the quiet interaction between the two sitters, whose thoughtful gazes suggest an internal moment of shared intimacy. This print’s classification confirms its significance in the history of French graphic arts, showing how leading painters utilized the medium of prints to explore new compositional challenges.

The designation of this specific impression as the "1st plate" suggests the early stage of the image’s evolution, highlighting the iterative nature of Renoir’s printmaking practice. This exemplary work, rooted in the culture of late 19th-century France, is preserved in the prestigious collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, serving as a vital resource for scholars studying Renoir’s versatility across different media, confirming his mastery well beyond his most famous paintings.