Vaas met bloemen 1745 - 1775

This print of a vase with flowers was made by Marie-Anne Rousselet in the eighteenth century. Although a two-dimensional work, it shows a three-dimensional object, and so shares an interest in form and surface with sculpture and ceramics. Notice the fine, precise lines that create the illusion of volume. These lines are achieved through the process of etching, where a metal plate is coated with a waxy, protective layer, then scratched into with a needle. The plate is then bathed in acid, which bites into the exposed lines. The plate is then inked, and the ink held in these etched lines is transferred to paper. The print medium allowed for the mass production of images and the dissemination of design ideas. This particular print is reminiscent of the elaborate designs found on luxury goods from the period. It gives us insight into the culture of design and the artistry of the era, blurring the lines between fine art and decorative arts.