Kantmaakster 1768 - 1796

This engraving, by Pieter de Mare, probably dates from the late 18th century. It depicts a lace maker, rendered with incredible detail using the traditional printmaking technique. The material of this artwork is itself significant; it is an ink impression on paper, a mode of production that, like lace making, relied upon skilled labor. Look closely and you can see the delicate tracery of the threads she manipulates, pinned to a bolster. Lace was prized as a luxury commodity, adorning the wealthy, and thus its production provided employment for many women, like the one depicted here. It’s easy to overlook such an image as a simple genre scene. But consider the intensive handwork involved, both in the making of the lace and in the creation of the engraving itself. In their different ways, both speak to the value of craft in a rapidly industrializing world. Ultimately, this artwork reminds us of the importance of recognizing the artistry inherent in both production and creative representation.