Broadside with 48 scenes depicting the kings and queens of Spain 1855 - 1865

This broadside, created by Antonio Bosch in the late 19th century, presents 48 scenes depicting Spanish royalty. It was made using a printing technique, likely wood engraving or lithography, allowing for mass production and wide distribution. The visual impact of the artwork lies in its detailed, miniature portraits, each meticulously rendered within its own frame. Notice the texture achieved through the fine lines and cross-hatching, creating depth and shadow. The choice of a printed format, rather than individual paintings, speaks to a shift in art production, influenced by industrialization. This broadside is not just a collection of royal portraits, but an artifact of its time, reflecting changes in labor, politics, and consumption. Consider the number of skilled workers involved in the production process, from the artist to the printer to the distributor. The work invites us to consider the social and economic factors that shaped its creation. Ultimately, it challenges the traditional view of art as a solely aesthetic object.