Description

This is a compelling original etching by the noted American Social Realist artist Irwin D. Hoffman (1901–1989), titled Mexican Mother. The work dates to 1934, a period during which Hoffman traveled extensively through Mexico, capturing the dignity and daily lives of its people with profound empathy.

The composition features a powerful, intimate depiction of a mother nursing her child against a textured backdrop of tall grasses. The piece showcases Hoffman’s mastery of the etching medium, utilizing deep tonal contrasts and intricate cross-hatching to create a sense of sculptural volume.

Key Features & Markings:

• Signatures: The piece is doubly signed. It features a signature and date (1934) etched within the plate in the lower center-right foreground. It is also signed in pencil by the artist in the lower right margin.

• "Imp." Notation: The pencil signature is followed by the abbreviation "Imp." (impressit), signifying that this specific print was personally hand-pulled by Hoffman himself on his own press, rather than by a commercial printer.

• Title: Titled "Mexican Mother" in pencil in the lower left margin.

• Condition: The etching is presented on its original cream-colored paper. The sheet shows signs of age consistent with its 90-year history, including minor foxing and light toning in the margins, which does not affect the central image.

• Dimensions: H:18in L:13in

Irwin Hoffman’s works are held in major permanent collections, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. This particular "Imp." signed impression represents a rare, direct link to the artist’s hand and his celebrated Mexican series.

Keywords: Irwin D Hoffman Mexican Mother original etching signed print 1934 Social Realism American artist hand-pulled impression vintage art Mexican series depression era art mother and child fine art printmaking collectible etching AAA artist