Adolphe Martial Potémont

This series provided instruction on etching in the form of an open letter from “an experienced etcher” to a beginner. Throughout, Potémont described where to purchase tools and materials, and how to prepare and print a plate. His text was supplemented by technical illustrations and marginal images that demonstrated their visual effects. The artist emphasized the freedom offered by etching, describing it as “draw[ing] . . . just as you would with a pen on paper.”