Prometheus, naked, chained to a rock, looking up at an eagle standing over him 1795

This print of Prometheus was made by Francesco Bartolozzi, who lived from 1728 to 1815. It's an etching, meaning that the image was incised into a metal plate with acid, and then printed, leaving these slightly raised lines on the paper. If you look closely, you’ll notice the consistent cross-hatching. This technique is typical of etching, and gives a sense of shadow and depth to the image. The reddish-brown color, also known as sanguine, is due to the type of ink used. Bartolozzi was a master printmaker, and highly sought after for his skills. He actually moved to London to become the “Engraver to the King,” producing countless images. Prints like these were not just artworks. They were also a key part of the circulation of imagery at this time. They acted as a kind of visual internet, allowing people to see and share ideas across distances. So, next time you look at a print, remember that it’s not just an image, but also a vital piece of social infrastructure.