Stielen en Ambachten / Arts et Métiers 1833 - 1911

This print, titled "Stielen en Ambachten / Arts et Métiers," was created by Brepols & Dierckx zoon. It's a fascinating example of how printed images can celebrate labor. The lithographic process allowed for the relatively quick reproduction of this sheet, presenting an array of professions. Each scene depicts artisans and tradespeople at work, from woodworkers and shoemakers to tailors and glaziers. What’s striking is the even-handed portrayal of each occupation, suggesting a world where dignity is found in all forms of making. The print acknowledges the social and economic realities of its time. Mass production was changing the landscape of work, and this image serves as a reminder of the value and variety of human skills. The very act of printing and distributing such an image is tied to the economic system it depicts, blurring the lines between representation and participation.