Round of Summer (aka Four Figures) – First State Proof
Arthur B. Davies (1862-1928), Round of Summer (aka Four Figures), soft ground etching, 1919, signed in pencil lower right. Reference: Czestochowski 91, first state (of 3), trial proofs only in this state. With margins, extensive wrinkling, tape on margins verso (showing through at top margin), soiling (mostly in margins), printed on light wove paper, 7 7/8 x 5 7/8, the sheet 11 x 7 3/8 inches.
A good impression; the rough condition indicates that this is a trial proof.
In later states aquatint was added to cover the figures, foreground, and the tree upper middle; this state is interesting for its playful sketchlike quality.