Smidse van Vulcanus en Pan met volgelingen 1679 - 1728

Jean-Baptiste de Poilly made this print, 'Smidse van Vulcanus en Pan met volgelingen', using etching and engraving techniques. These processes involve using acid to bite lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed onto paper. The print depicts Vulcan's forge, a hub of skilled labor, where gods and mythical figures collaborate in metalworking. You can almost feel the heat of the forges, and the weight of the tools in their hands. The print celebrates human ingenuity and artistry. The choice of etching and engraving mirrors the transformation of raw materials into finished objects. The artist’s hand guides the burin, much like Vulcan directs the forge, emphasizing the labor involved in both artistic and industrial creation. By elevating this scene, de Poilly blurs the lines between craft, industry, and art, suggesting that all forms of making are worthy of admiration. It asks us to see the value in both the final product and the skilled processes behind its creation.