Berline 1821

This print, “Berline,” was created by Christian David Gebauer. While the date is unknown, we know Gebauer was active in the late 1700s and early 1800s. The work is made by etching a design into a metal plate, likely copper, and then using this plate to transfer an image to paper. The crisp lines of the dog's form show the engraver’s mark, and the soft washes of color are added on top. But why choose printmaking to depict this particular dog? Well, prints were relatively inexpensive, and could be circulated widely. In effect, the artist used his skill to render the animal as an object of design; available for appreciation, study, or perhaps even purchase as a pet. The print implies a certain democratization, but of course, this only extends so far, as the ability to make or buy such an image would remain limited to a privileged few. Consider how materials, making, and context enhance our understanding, blurring the lines between fine art and craft.