Onderboezem tussen twee Toscaanse pilasters c. 1675 - 1686

Cornelis Danckerts’ “Onderboezem tussen twee Toscaanse pilasters” is an undated print, likely made with etching or engraving, methods that allow for fine detail and mass production. The print depicts an ornate fireplace design, flanked by pilasters and adorned with garlands and an oval scene. Its materiality is all about line: precise, controlled, and multiplied to create tonal variation. Consider the labor involved in producing such a design. Each line meticulously etched or engraved, demonstrates skilled craftsmanship, time, and effort. The print would have been part of a set, produced in multiples. The image is an emblem of luxury accessible via reproductive print technology, it was not solely the domain of the wealthy, this print could circulate widely, influencing taste and design on a broader scale. By understanding the materials, processes, and social context of this artwork, we gain a deeper appreciation for its cultural significance, challenging conventional distinctions between art, craft, and commerce.