Cupido 1769

This print, titled "Cupido," was created by J.F. Clemens in the late 18th or early 19th century using etching techniques. The process of etching involves covering a metal plate with a waxy, protective layer, then using a needle to scratch away the coating, exposing the metal underneath. When acid is applied, it bites into these exposed lines, creating grooves that hold ink. The plate is then cleaned, inked, and pressed onto paper, transferring the image. Look closely, and you can see how the etched lines define the cherubic figure of Cupid, his bow, and the surrounding clouds. The precision of the etching allows for fine details and tonal variations, creating a delicate yet impactful image. The creation of this print involved skilled labor and craftsmanship. It reflects a period where printmaking was not only a means of artistic expression, but also a way to disseminate images widely, playing a significant role in the visual culture of the time. Appreciating the technical skill involved invites us to reconsider the traditional hierarchy between art and craft.