Jardin de Monceau 1779

This print, “Jardin de Monceau,” was created by Louis de Carmontelle. We can see the artist has used etching and engraving techniques, processes that involve physically impressing an image onto a metal plate, which is then used to transfer the image to paper. The intricate lines of the print are a testament to the hand skills, labor, and time investment involved in the etching and engraving processes. These techniques, while requiring precision, also allow for the creation of multiple copies. This is in itself tied to economic production, catering to a growing market for art and images during the 18th century. The print, therefore, becomes part of a broader system of artistic production and consumption. Considering the material and processes involved, we are invited to contemplate not only the aesthetics of the artwork but also its place within the framework of artistic production and consumption in the 1700s.