LOUISE BOURGEOIS: COMPLETE BOOKS & PRINTS

Alternate Title:

Eugénie Grandet

Descriptive Title:

English translation: "Woman"

Themes:

Body Parts, Fabric Works, Figures, Nature

Techniques:

Drypoint

Description:

Drypoint, with collage

Support:

Fabric

Dimensions:

plate: 6 x 4" (15.2 x 10.2 cm); sheet: 9 1/4 x 6 1/2" (23.5 x 16.5 cm)

Signature:

"LB" lower right margin, stitched in red thread.

Publisher:

unpublished

Printer:

Harlan & Weaver, New York

Edition:

2 known impressions of version 1, only state

Impression:

Not numbered

Edition Information:

Proof before the editioning of version 2, state III.

On the second known impression of "Femme" of this state, the distress markings are more visible, probably due to a difference in inking. In addition, the signature initials on that impression are stitched in black thread. The additional impression is not illustrated.

Background:

The Alternate Title "Eugénie Grandet" is derived from a novel by Honoré de Balzac, the plot of which involved the domination of a father over his daughter. Bourgeois identified with the situation. This composition, titled "Femme," ultimately led to a second version, titled "Eugénie Grandet." Inspired by an exhibition project for the Maison de Balzac in Paris, Bourgeois created a series of works based on the character Eugénie Grandet. The exhibition “Moi, Eugénie Grandet” took place 11/2/10-2/7/11 and included an accompanying catalogue with an essay by Jean Frémon.

© The Easton Foundation/VAGA at ARS, NY