"La Colere de Neptune," fontaine 1767

Curator: "La Colere de Neptune," or "Neptune's Wrath," a 1767 etching by Gabriel de Saint-Aubin. It has a very theatrical feel to it, and the details, although rough, give a strong impression of movement and power. What strikes you about it? Editor: How do you interpret this work, especially in light of its process as an etching? Curator: Well, consider etching in the 18th century. It was less about "high art" and more about reproduction and dissemination of ideas. Saint-Aubin uses line and texture here not for some inherent beauty, but to communicate effectively the allegory of Neptune’s wrath. It becomes a question of how this image functions within the social context of its production and intended consumption. Do you see any evidence of labour and class in the artwork itself? Editor: The subjects seem quite idealized and removed from ordinary life. It feels aimed at a wealthier consumer. Curator: Precisely. Now consider the materials: copper plate, acid, ink. These weren't necessarily precious materials, making the print accessible. But the subject matter, the allegory, speaks to the patronage system of the time. Was it purely decorative? Or was it communicating particular values tied to the patron's own aspirations and the material conditions that allowed them such display? Editor: That’s interesting, the means of production speak to both accessibility and class aspirations. Curator: Indeed. It reflects the complexities of art consumption and cultural values embedded in seemingly simple objects. Saint-Aubin created not just an image, but a product reflective of the broader material and social context. What is it that Saint-Aubin is seeking to communicate here? Editor: Now I’m also considering it within the wider system of prints, distribution and social messaging. The tension of materials vs aspiration has given me a whole new view of the etching!