Antoine Furetière c. 17th century

Editor: This is Gérard Edelinck's portrait of Antoine Furetière. The etching technique is so delicate, almost velvety. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Note how the printmaking process allows for distribution and accessibility. This wasn't just about artistry but about the labor involved in producing multiple copies. Consider, too, who could afford such a portrait and the social context that created that market for images. Editor: That's a perspective I hadn't considered, focusing on the means rather than just the image itself. Curator: Precisely. The value lies not just in the likeness but in the network of production and consumption surrounding it.