Midsummer Night's Dream 1858

This print, Midsummer Night’s Dream, was made by Samuel Cousins, who lived from 1801 to 1887. It's a mezzotint, a printmaking process that allows for rich tonal range and velvety blacks. Mezzotint is an intaglio process, where the image is incised into a metal plate, in this case, likely copper. The entire plate is roughened with a tool called a rocker, creating a surface that would print solid black. Then, the artist works from dark to light, smoothing areas to create lighter tones. The labor-intensive process demanded skill and patience, reflecting the printmaker's mastery over the medium. Cousins’ choice of mezzotint lends itself to the romantic, dreamlike atmosphere of the scene. The velvety blacks and soft gradations of tone evoke the mystery and magic of Shakespeare's play, while the smoothness of the medium contrasts with the drama of the scene. This emphasizes the skill and technique of the artist. Considering the time and expertise involved in creating a mezzotint, appreciating the process is key to understanding its value. It challenges the traditional distinction between fine art and craft, revealing the artistry inherent in skilled reproduction.