Goldsmiths' and Metalsmiths' Designs 1771

Editor: This is "Goldsmiths' and Metalsmiths' Designs" by Robert Bénard. It looks like an engraving on a plate. I’m immediately struck by how clearly it depicts both the workshop and the designs themselves. What historical context can you offer? Curator: It is fascinating, isn’t it? Think about who is depicted here. Consider that the artisans are working in a space that may not fully represent the breadth of identities and experiences present at the time. What stories might not be visualized here? Editor: So, you're saying there's more to the story than what's on the surface? Curator: Precisely. The image shows a particular vision of labor. We must ask ourselves: Whose vision is this and who is excluded from it? Thinking about the social structures of the time, who typically had access to these workshops and skills? Editor: That's a really good point. I hadn't considered that. I guess I was just admiring the craftsmanship. Curator: It's easy to do, but by examining the social context, we can understand the work on a deeper level.