Laughing Peasant 18th-19th century

Editor: This is Abraham Delfos' "Laughing Peasant," an etching from the 18th century. The detail in the lines describing the man's clothing and the jug he's holding is remarkable. I'm curious, what aspects of the materials and production process stand out to you? Curator: Consider the copper plate itself, the labor of the engraver, and the social context of printmaking at this time. Were these images made for mass consumption, or for a more elite audience? The means of distribution affect our reading. Editor: That's fascinating. So, the very act of creating and distributing prints shaped their meaning. Curator: Exactly. We must investigate how the material conditions of art influence and reflect societal values. Editor: I never thought about it that way before!