Frontispiece for Fanny Burney's "Evelina": Mr. Lovel Bitten in the Ear by Captain Mirvan's Monkey, vol. III 1779

This print, now at the Met, was made by Francesco Bartolozzi as the frontispiece for the third volume of Fanny Burney's novel "Evelina." It is an engraving, a process which involves incising lines into a metal plate, applying ink, and then pressing the plate onto paper. Engraving was a highly skilled and laborious process, demanding precision and control. The fine lines and intricate details of the image would have taken considerable time to execute, reflecting the value placed on craftsmanship in the 18th century. Notice the range of textures and tones Bartolozzi achieved through varying the density and direction of his engraved lines. From the plushness of the curtains to the expressions on the characters' faces, he skillfully used the medium to convey a sense of depth and realism. Beyond its technical virtuosity, the print provides a glimpse into the social dynamics of the time, depicting an amusing scene from the novel that satirizes the manners and pretensions of the English gentry. The print is more than just an illustration; it's a testament to the power of craft, reflecting the intersection of art, literature, and social commentary in the 18th century.