Portrait of the Painter Giovanni Battista Piazzetta c. 1750

Giovanni Marco Pitteri created this portrait of the painter Giovanni Battista Piazzetta using etching and engraving, techniques deeply rooted in craft. Look closely, and you'll see how the fine lines create a sense of depth and texture, almost as if you could reach out and touch the sitter’s face or feel the weight of his robe. Pitteri’s skill with these tools is evident in the intricate details of the face, capturing Piazzetta's character and conveying a sense of his presence. Engraving and etching demanded meticulous labor, a stark contrast to the often-romanticized idea of artistic creation. This work is a reminder that art-making is also work, deeply embedded in social and economic contexts. The rise of printmaking allowed for wider distribution of images, connecting art with the burgeoning world of commerce and consumption. Understanding the materials, processes, and social context allows us to appreciate the full meaning of this print, challenging the divide between fine art and craft.