Man met kind in gesprek met een oudere man met baard 1850 - 1899

This print was made by Louis Jaugey, likely in the mid-19th century. It is made using a printmaking technique called etching, where lines are incised into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed onto paper. The fine, delicate lines of the etching process are particularly well-suited to capturing the intimate scene of the man, child, and older gentleman in conversation, rendered in great detail. The artist would have carefully prepared the metal plate, applying an acid-resistant coating, and then drawing through this coating to expose the metal underneath. The plate is then submerged in acid, which etches away the exposed lines. The depth and width of the lines can be controlled by varying the time and concentration of the acid bath, allowing for subtle variations in tone and texture. The final print captures the material process, with the visible marks of the etching needle creating a sense of depth and atmosphere. By understanding the relationship between materials, making, and context, we can appreciate the full meaning of the artwork, moving beyond traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.