ARBARETAZ Jean-Louis

Painter and engraver born in Montluçon, Jean-Louis Arbaretaz (1942-1995) won the second Rome Prize for engraving in 1966. His engraved work places a central focus on the female figure. Discover his original large-format etchings at Galerie 125.

Jean-Louis Arbaretaz, Engraving in Service of the Figure

French painter and engraver, Jean-Louis Arbaretaz was born in Montluçon on March 1, 1942, and passed away on May 27, 1995. Trained at the École des beaux-arts de Clermont-Ferrand, he received the second Prix de Rome for engraving in 1966, an early testament to his mastery of the craft. His engraved work, highly coherent, revolves around a few themes he continually explored.

The Woman, Central Motif

Lone woman, bathers, young mother holding her child: the female figure permeates his entire oeuvre. Arbaretaz places her at the heart of compositions constructed with the rigor of an academically trained draftsman. Prints like "Femme aux deux crocus" or "Les Baigneuses" illustrate this approach, classical in subject and personal in style.

The Vegetal and the Bird

Nature often accompanies his figures. Flowers, like the crocuses that title one of his plates, or the bird, subject of "L'Oiseau droit," introduce a poetic counterpoint and a play of forms that enrich the reading of the image.

The Engraver's Craft

Etching, aquatint, color lithography: Arbaretaz practiced several printmaking techniques. In etching, the drawing is traced on a varnished metal plate, then bitten with acid before printing, allowing for a very fine line. His large-format sheets, often signed and numbered, are now sought after by print enthusiasts. Since 2012, an association in Montluçon has worked to recognize and promote his work.

Acquiring a Jean-Louis Arbaretaz Engraving

The original etchings by Jean-Louis Arbaretaz presented above are offered starting at around 150 euros. Shipped in reinforced packaging, they come with the gallery's certificate, ensuring a confident acquisition. To extend your visit, browse our selection of lithographs and engravings.

Also to discover at Galerie 125: works by Albert Decaris and Mario Avati, other masters of engraving.