Tail-piece c. 16th century

Editor: This intriguing print, called "Tail-piece" by an anonymous artist, seems to be an etching. I'm curious about its elaborate design and what purpose it may have served. What can you tell me about its context? Curator: Well, considering the materiality, this print was likely functional. Ornament like this was produced in multiples, using relatively inexpensive materials, to decorate books or other printed matter. How does understanding its means of production change your perspective? Editor: It highlights how printed ornament democratized design, making elaborate decoration accessible to a wider audience, right? I now see it as part of a larger system of production and consumption. Thanks! Curator: Precisely. Recognizing the labor and distribution involved emphasizes its role in the broader visual culture. It shifts the focus from individual artistry to the mechanics of dissemination.