A rare, cryptic etching by Charles Meryon, this 1863 work functions as a visual puzzle, blending symbolic imagery with precise, fine-line technique.

Charles Meryon is widely recognised for his atmospheric etchings of Paris, yet his oeuvre also contains curious, personal works such as this Rebus. Created in 1863, the print functions as a visual puzzle, reflecting the artist's penchant for cryptic symbolism and wordplay. The composition is contained within a circular frame, featuring a central stone block or monument upon which a figure is depicted washing fabric in a basin. Above the figure, a series of letters (J) are arranged, while the base of the block bears the inscription 'ANNEE'. The surrounding circle is punctuated by Roman numerals, suggesting a temporal or calendrical significance.

Meryon's technique here is precise and controlled, characteristic of his disciplined approach to the copper plate. The lines are fine and deliberate, creating a stark contrast against the paper. This work deviates from his more famous architectural views, offering instead a glimpse into the artist's private intellectual pursuits. The inclusion of 'C.M. fecit' and the printer's address at the bottom confirms the print's status as a deliberate, finished edition rather than a mere sketch. The imagery is dense with meaning, inviting the viewer to decode the relationship between the washerwoman, the letters, and the surrounding numerals. It is a rare example of Meryon's interest in the intersection of graphic design and personal allegory, demonstrating his ability to apply his mastery of the etching needle to subjects beyond the urban environment. This print provides a unique perspective on the artist's mental state and his creative process during a period of professional and personal difficulty.