Jongen voert eenden 1856

This print, ‘Jongen voert eenden’, was made by an anonymous artist using engraving techniques. The image has been created by cutting lines into a metal plate, inking the surface, and then pressing paper against it. The lines of the engraving define the scene: a boy feeding ducks on a serene body of water. The engraver’s skill is evident in the textures, from the feathery plumage of the swans to the detailed foliage and architectural backdrop. The medium allows for capturing light and shadow, adding depth to the composition. Engraving was often used to reproduce images for a wide audience, therefore it played a significant role in distributing visual information in its time. The print medium is therefore tied to wider issues of labor, production, and the circulation of images. Considering the materials and processes behind this print gives us a deeper understanding of its cultural value, and its place within the history of both art and industry.