Het oordeel van Salomo 18th century

This print, depicting the Judgment of Solomon, was made by Giovanni Volpato in the late 18th century, using etching and engraving techniques on paper. The linear precision achieved through engraving gives the scene its clarity. The subsequent addition of color, likely by hand, softens the overall effect. The materiality of the print connects it to a broader history of reproductive technologies, which made images widely accessible. Prints like these democratized art, making biblical scenes available for study and contemplation beyond the walls of churches or the collections of the wealthy. Consider the labor involved in creating this image. Volpato’s skill as an engraver, combined with the work of assistants who likely added the color, reflects a complex workshop practice. The final product, sold in multiples, contributed to a growing market for accessible art. By understanding the print’s materiality and mode of production, we gain insights into the cultural values and economic systems of its time, blurring the boundaries between art, craft, and commerce.