The Legend of the Briar Rose - The Prince Enters the Briar Wood 1892

Edward Burne-Jones made this print of the Briar Rose story, using a reproductive technique, probably photogravure. Look closely and you'll see that it’s all about tone, rather than line. Burne-Jones made paintings on this theme, and then craftsmen translated these into monochrome prints. This was a popular way of circulating imagery at the time. The density of visual information in the image, with the sharp thorns, and the carefully stippled effect used to depict metal, would have demanded close collaboration between artist and printmaker. Also note the division of labor: Burne-Jones designed, but other hands executed the image. Reproduction, as a mode of production, was tied to the wider social issues of labor and politics. It also made these fairytale subjects accessible to a much wider audience, at a reasonable cost. Remember, understanding the materials, processes, and context is essential for grasping the full meaning of an artwork.