Inuit 1781 - 1791

This engraving, titled "Kleederdragt der Eskimaux," meaning "Clothing of the Eskimos," was created by an anonymous artist. The printmaking process itself is interesting. Notice the fine lines used to create the image. These are achieved by incising lines into a metal plate, applying ink, and then transferring the image to paper. The choice of printmaking as a medium is significant here. It's a process of reproduction, allowing for the dissemination of images. This particular print, with its focus on the clothing of Inuit people, speaks to the European fascination with the ‘other.’ It reflects a desire to document and categorize different cultures, a common practice during the age of exploration and colonialism. However, the print also raises questions about the accuracy and cultural sensitivity of such representations. How does the act of translating a culture through the lens of European art-making impact our understanding? Paying attention to these questions is key to understanding the cultural significance of the artwork.