Simon Episcopius c. 18th century

Editor: This is a print of "Simon Episcopius" by Pieter van Gunst. The details in the face and clothing are very intricate. What strikes me is the process involved in creating such a detailed image through engraving. What can you tell me about it? Curator: The engraving's materiality speaks to the historical context. The labor involved in creating these details was intensive, reflecting a particular mode of artistic production and consumption. The print served as a reproducible image, widely consumed to promote the ideas of Simon Episcopius. What does this suggest about the power of printed images in the 17th and 18th centuries? Editor: I hadn’t considered the social aspect of its creation and consumption. It's fascinating how the process and the materials used connect directly to the artwork's purpose. Thanks!