Tail-piece c. 17th century

Editor: So, this tiny print called "Tail-piece," artist unknown, presents these three black ornamental flourishes on a small rectangle of paper. It has an unfinished, almost functional feel to it. What do you make of this unassuming piece? Curator: Let’s consider its materiality. The rough paper, the blocky print - these choices weren't accidental. It speaks to a conscious decision, perhaps an embrace of a specific kind of production or a comment on the means of making images. Editor: Interesting. So it's less about the image itself and more about how it was made? Curator: Exactly! We might consider the social context of its creation. Who made it? For what purpose? Was it mass-produced or a unique item? These questions help us understand its value beyond mere aesthetics. Editor: That gives me a lot to think about; seeing art this way is very different. Curator: Indeed. By examining the materials and the production process, we can uncover hidden narratives and social contexts.