Dante Swoons before the Soaring Souls of Paolo and Francesca, Virgil at his Side
c. 1818
Etching and aquatint on ivory wove paper
47 × 30.2 cm (18.5 × 11.9 in)
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Not currently on view
In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026
Discussion
FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG
In no other of Fuseli’s original prints (that is, prints made by him, in contrast to reproductive engravings made by others after his paintings) did he so closely approach the condition of drawing as here. The etched line and aquatint, a type of etching that uses powdered rosin to create a tonal effect, successfully evoke the penned line and brushed wash of his watercolors.
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