James Ensor and the Graphic Experiment

Thanks to the experimental character of his prints, James Ensor remains one of the most important etchers of his time. Seventy-five years after his death, his prints continue to amaze. This richly illustrated book sheds light on the remarkable creation process behind his prints, and also on the influence of earlier artists, his contemporaries and collectors, and the reception of his work. By taking a close look at his prints and by comparing the different states, we can catch a glimpse of Ensor?s own states of imagination. Not only did Ensor experiment with various etching techniques and often reworked the etched plates, he also transformed his prints by adding to them and colouring them by hand in pencil and watercolour. Moreover, he sometimes used coloured inks and printed on to a variety supports, such as satin and parchment. James Ensor and the Graphic Experiment places the prints of Ensor in a new light, and is a continuing source of inspiration for admirers of this quirky and multi-faceted artist.