Kantpatronen 1855

This is "Kantpatronen," an original field print by Alois Auer, a man who lived in Austria during the 19th century. Consider the social implications of such delicate work. The labor-intensive craft of lace-making was often associated with women, particularly those from lower social classes, seeking economic independence. Auer's print allows us to consider the economics of the textile industry and how printed images impacted the production, consumption, and distribution of such goods. These could be seen as documents of economic activity in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, reflecting social class, gendered labor roles, and technological innovation. For further understanding, one might examine census records or guild documents of the period, to more fully understand the lives of lace-makers during this time. Only through such research can we fully appreciate how images connect to lived realities.