Ambachten, bedrijven 1861 - 1929

This print, "Ambachten, bedrijven," was made by Albertus Willem Sijthoff. The print, featuring detailed engravings, showcases a range of trades and industries. The images aren't presented as high art, but rather as documentation of work and labor. Note how the materiality of the printmaking process, the lines etched into the metal plate, mirror the work being depicted; each occupation requires precision, skill, and the application of repetitive actions. The scenes of labor within the images highlight the social context of production, showing individuals engaged in various trades. Consider how the print itself is a product of labor, requiring the skilled hands of an engraver and printer. The choice of printmaking as a medium underscores the intention to disseminate knowledge about labor practices to a broader audience. This print invites us to appreciate the artistry found in everyday work, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and the applied arts.