The Duel (Le duel)

Before you is The Duel (Le duel), a captivating 1900 print by Paul-Albert Besnard. This piece, part of the esteemed collection of the National Gallery of Art, measures a compact 10.9 centimeters wide and 14 centimeters high. The print masterfully uses black and white to depict a dramatic scene, possibly set outdoors in a wooded area, judging by the dark, textured background. nn Notice the striking use of chiaroscuro—the dramatic interplay of light and shadow—which heightens the intensity of the moment. The figures are rendered with a distinctly expressive style, utilizing varying line weights and densities to create a sense of movement and depth. The central focus is a man in a top hat carefully carrying what seems to be an unconscious person. Adding to the intrigue is the presence of a skeletal figure, holding a cane-like object, who observes the scene. This skeletal figure introduces a powerful symbolic element, perhaps representing death or mortality, contrasting sharply with the unfolding human drama. A fourth figure is subtly placed in the lower right, seemingly tending to a small object on the ground. nn The overall mood is somber and intense, hinting at a duel or a confrontation with potentially fatal consequences. The uneven terrain, suggested by short, scratchy lines depicting the ground, further emphasizes the urgency and tension of the moment. The artist's skill in conveying such a complex narrative within such a small format is truly remarkable.