Indramning: Blomster og Fugle 1847 - 1938

This is a monochrome print made by F. Hendriksen, featuring an elaborate floral and bird border. The work’s appearance depends greatly on the etching process itself. The fine lines are achieved by drawing into a prepared metal plate, which is then submerged in acid. The acid bites away the exposed lines, leaving an image that can be inked and printed. The texture of the paper is important too. Its slightly absorbent surface allows for a rich, velvety black, and crisp lines. As for the cultural significance, this kind of printed ephemera speaks to the rise of mass media in the late 19th century. Etchings like these would have been relatively quick and inexpensive to produce, making them accessible to a wide audience. This speaks to the democratization of images, and the changing social landscape of art production and consumption. Understanding the materials, the making and the context helps us to think beyond the traditional definitions of fine art, and appreciate the wider world of visual culture.