Madonna and Child c. 17th century

Editor: This is "Madonna and Child," an engraving by Pierre Daret. It seems to capture a tender moment, but the figures appear quite idealized. What strikes you about this piece, from a materialist perspective? Curator: The engraving process itself is crucial here. Daret, as the engraver, is translating Vouet's painted image. The means of reproduction allows for broader dissemination, turning the religious image into a commodity. Note also how the inscription ties the image to the patronage system, emphasizing production and consumption. Editor: So, the act of making the print itself is as important as the image it depicts? Curator: Precisely. The transformation of religious sentiment into a reproducible object, tied to patronage, tells us much about the social and economic context of its creation and consumption. Editor: I never thought about it that way. I’ll definitely consider production and distribution in my future analysis. Curator: Excellent!