Gezicht op het Stadhuis te Neurenberg 1742 - 1801

Georg Balthasar Probst created this print of the Nuremberg City Hall using etching and engraving techniques. The linear quality of the image speaks to the engraver's tools used to create it: burins, needles and scrapers. The print medium allowed for the mass production of images. This was a departure from the traditional, unique artwork. In this period, prints such as this one were made for a growing consumer culture eager to purchase images of far-off places, and local landmarks. Notice the city hall in the image, the architectural details, and the figures populating the space. Each line was carefully etched or engraved, and then inked and pressed onto paper. This process required skilled artisans who understood the technical aspects of printmaking, and also had the artistic ability to capture the essence of the scene. Considering the materials, processes, and social context of this print helps us to understand the cultural and economic forces at play in the 18th century, as well as the artistic choices made by Probst in creating this image.