A Tyger (A recumbent Leopard by a Tree)

As Lennox-Boyd notes, ‘Apart from being a fine composition, this plate is highly accomplished technically. It achieves a subtle evocation of fading light. To the left, a bold area of plain white conveys the dazzling effect of sunlight on water, toning imperceptibly into distinctions of sea, land and sky, by means of roulette work and etching of the utmost delicacy. In the foreground, improvised linear patterns convey the different textures of bark, fur, scattered rock and leaves in shadow.’