Empreinte

Engraved Aquatinted Brass & Engraved Aquatinted Maillechort.
Edition: Unique piece.

The Memory of the Trace

The Empreinte nesting tables are inspired by a tribal vision, evoking the very genesis of the world. This work explores how reality transcends daily experience through the dualities that surround us, materialised here as indelible marks left upon matter.

The Concept: Empreinte (Imprint) symbolises the passage of humanity and time. Much like the first signs traced upon cave walls or the marks left by natural elements, this creation is a reflection on identity and memory. Each engraving is a signature—a fragment of history etched into metal for eternity.

The Materials: This set plays on a powerful chromatic and textural duality. It combines engraved aquatinted brass, with its warm, solar reflections, and maillechort, whose lunar clarity punctuates the piece. The interaction between these two alloys creates a striking visual depth.

The Craftsmanship: The surface is treated like a geographical map or a living skin. Emmanuel uses his signature etching technique to create complex reliefs that invite touch. The textured quality of the metal feels organic, almost biological, reminding us that every art object possesses its own unique fingerprint.

The Vision: Comprising two nested tables of generous proportions (totaling 200cm x 160cm), this set allows for a dynamic staging of space. Empreinte does not merely furnish; it recounts the origin of the world and the permanence of the artistic gesture within a contemporary interior.