"The Tombs of July" from The Complete Works of Béranger 1836

J. J. Grandville created "The Tombs of July," a print from The Complete Works of Béranger, using the technique of engraving. Here, the incised lines bring the scene into being – a memorial, draped with flags and surrounded by mourners, young and old. The very nature of engraving speaks to broader social issues. It’s a reproductive medium, designed for the dissemination of images far and wide, and it reflects the rise of a print culture in the 19th century. Grandville’s imagery, often satirical and politically charged, found its audience through these printed editions. Consider the labor involved, not just in Grandville's design, but also in the meticulous work of the engraver, who would have painstakingly translated the artist's vision onto the metal plate. This form of production is tied to the economics of the era, where skilled artisans and burgeoning industries coexisted. Ultimately, understanding this print means recognizing the convergence of artistic expression, skilled labor, and the means of mass communication, breaking down the traditional art historical barriers.