La Lavandiere, 1924: An Etching by Mary Bonner (1887-1935)

Unframed 5" x 7" Framed 11" x 12" Mary Bonner's La Lavandiere (1924) is a poignant study in contrasts. Executed with the precision honed during her European training, yet imbued with the evocative storytelling of her Texan heritage, this etching masterfully captures a French laundrywoman in quiet contemplation. The artist's signature expressive linework and atmospheric rendering transcend mere depiction, transforming the everyday scene into a meditation on labor, place, and memory. Bonner's unique ability to synthesize international artistic influences with her regional identity establishes her as a pivotal figure in expanding the reach of Texas art on the national and international stage. Her works are held in prestigious collections including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston; the San Antonio Museum of Art; the McNay Art Museum; and even the British Museum in London, a testament to her enduring artistic legacy. La Lavandiere, a powerful example of her singular style, speaks both to the quiet dignity of its subject and the broad appeal of her enduring artistic vision. Texas artist 1924