Tailpiece c. 18th century

Editor: This is Jean Beugnet’s "Tailpiece," a small print at the Harvard Art Museums. The cross-hatching is so detailed! What's striking is the way musical instruments are arranged with floral motifs, almost like trophies. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The print's material context is intriguing. As a "tailpiece," it likely served a functional role, perhaps as decoration for a book's end. The choice of musical instruments, their depiction, and the labor involved in their making reflects a culture of consumption and artistry. The materiality speaks volumes about production methods. Editor: So, it's less about the image itself and more about how it was made and used? Curator: Precisely. The print's value lies not just in its aesthetic qualities, but also its role in the broader system of production and consumption of art. Editor: I never thought about prints that way. Thanks for the new perspective! Curator: My pleasure! Considering the process of art provides a lot of insight.