Zittende man gekleed als vorst 1823 - 1873

This print of a seated man dressed as a monarch was created by Célestin Nanteuil sometime in the 19th century. The process used to create this image is crucial to understanding its appeal. Nanteuil made it using etching, a printmaking technique that involves using acid to cut into a metal plate, which is then inked and pressed onto paper. This image, with its intricate detail and tonal range, showcases the artist's mastery of the etching process. The cross-hatching and fine lines would have demanded a high level of skill and patience to execute, pointing towards a significant investment of time and labor. The image has a stark contrast, which contributes to its dramatic feel. Paying attention to such production details allows us to appreciate the labor and skill involved in creating art, challenging the distinction between high art and craft.