Photos do no justice to this dry point etching, as it is difficult to avoid glare shooting through the glass; in person it is crisp and bright and very finely done. I didn't know it when I purchased it (the artist's name is incorrectly cited on reverse) but with a little research I discovered it was done by Spanish painter, engraver, master typographer and editor Louis Jou (1882-1968). Jou, who became a naturalized French citizen, set up his own publishing house in Paris and gained a reputation as one of the greatest typographers of the 19th century, and his original etchings and wood engravings appeared in books authored by Victor Hugo, Andre Gide, Cervantes and many more. Much more about him, and other examples of his work are readily accessible. This etching, which I believe dates to the 1920s, is signed within the plate with Jou’s monogram at lower left. I've got a penchant for depictions of boxers and boxing--really the most essential of sports--and this find this sensitive etching of an exhausted fighter both elegant and poignant. (And a very nice gift for one who has been working long and hard.)
Professionally framed, as found: 13 5/16" x 10 1/16". Etching plate (image only) size: 5 9/16" x 3 1/2". Very good condition, nicely matted and framed. There is a bit of loss to the gold enameled surface of the frame along the edges (bottom and one spot along the left), pretty minor.
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