The artwork titled “Older Sister,” created by James Tissot in 1881, is rendered using the techniques of drypoint and etching. It is associated with the Impressionism art movement and measures 23.5 by 28.82 centimeters. This portrait captures the figures seated on stone steps, meticulously detailed through the medium’s delicate lines and textures.
In the artwork, a young woman, presumably the older sister, sits on the stone steps in an elegant, poised manner. Her attire is detailed with intricate folds and patterns, typical of the 19th-century fashion. Nestled against her is a younger girl, possibly her sibling, resting comfortably with her head on the older sister’s lap. The surroundings are adorned with lush potted plants, adding a touch of nature and tranquility to the scene. The composition reflects the intimate bond between the siblings and is enriched by the careful, expressive rendering of their surroundings. The soft interplay of light and shadow, characteristic of Impressionism, is evident in the intricate detailing of textures and the serene, contemplative mood it evokes.