Mei: minnend paar 1736 - 1775

This small print, *Mei: minnend paar*, was made by Jan Caspar Philips in the 18th century using engraving techniques. It wasn't painting or sculpture, but printmaking – a process capable of democratizing images for mass consumption. Look closely and you'll notice the stark contrast and fine lines, characteristic of engraving on a metal plate. This wasn’t a quick sketch; it required careful planning and skilled labor, each line etched deliberately, backwards, to create the final image. The act of engraving itself, demanding both precision and artistry, elevates the work beyond mere reproduction. The image depicts shepherds in a landscape. But remember, prints like this weren’t just pretty pictures. They circulated widely, carrying ideas and influencing tastes. Philips's choice to depict an idealized pastoral scene taps into a longing for simplicity, perhaps a critique of urban life and courtly love. The artist elevates everyday labor to the realm of fine art. In this small, unassuming print, we see how materials, making, and social context intertwine, challenging our assumptions about what art is and who it's for.