Titelpagina voor: 'Hedendaagsche Historie van Jenghiz Khan's opvolgers in Tartarije, deel 5', 1767 1767

This title page for a history of Genghis Khan's successors was made in 1767 by Reinier Vinkeles using engraving. This is an intaglio printmaking technique, where the artist incises an image into a metal plate, applies ink, and then transfers it to paper under high pressure. The linear quality of the engraving lends itself well to conveying intricate details and textures. Note the way Vinkeles uses hatching and cross-hatching to create a sense of depth, and shadow throughout the composition. Engraving was essential to the rise of mass media and consumerism in the 18th century. This labour-intensive practice was often divided among workshops, with skilled artisans specializing in different aspects of production. While Vinkeles was a highly regarded artist, his work also reflects broader social and economic forces. Consider how the print's small scale belies the vast historical narrative it introduces. It reminds us that even seemingly straightforward images are the product of complex material processes, and social contexts that challenge traditional notions of fine art.