Avond: vijf badende vrouwen in een rivier bij volle maan 1741

This print, "Avond: vijf badende vrouwen in een rivier bij volle maan," was made by Nicolas de Larmessin III in the 18th century. Its fine lines were achieved through engraving, a printmaking technique that requires great skill. The artist would have used a tool called a burin to carve lines directly into a metal plate, which was then inked and printed. Consider the labor involved in this process. Each line is the result of a deliberate, physical action. The precision and detail suggest a significant investment of time and expertise. Engraving was a highly valued craft, essential for disseminating information and imagery before the advent of photography. The print’s subject matter—women bathing under a full moon—reflects the tastes of an aristocratic clientele. Yet, the print itself, as a multiple, would have made this scene accessible to a broader audience. This speaks to the complex relationship between craft, commerce, and social class in the 18th century. The value of this artwork lies not only in its aesthetic appeal, but also in the rich history of its making.