Reproductie van De Heilige Maagd door Hans Memling before 1877

This is a reproduction of The Virgin Mary by Hans Memling, created by Joseph Maes, sometime between 1838 and 1908, using a photogravure technique. Photogravure is a printing process that translates a photograph into an etched copper plate, which is then inked and printed. The result is a fine, continuous-tone print, valued for its rich detail and subtle gradations. This particular photogravure is monochrome, which simplifies the process and accentuates the image's tonal qualities. The image shows a scene of devotion within a grand architectural setting. The photogravure process itself is significant; it sits at the intersection of art, craft, and industry. Unlike a unique painting, it allows for the reproduction of images, making art more accessible. This reflects the broader social and economic shifts of the 19th century, where mechanized production began to transform both artistic practice and consumption. Paying attention to these processes allows us to appreciate how images circulate and acquire meaning within society.