Nieuw Arlequin spel 1848 - 1881

This is an image of a game, Nieuw Arlequin spel, printed by Lutkie & Cranenburg. The processes involved in making it include graphic design, engraving, and printing. Notice the figure at the center, whose body is composed of diamond shapes in yellow and blue, typical of Harlequin's costume from commedia dell'arte. The material qualities of the print — its flat, graphic nature and limited color palette — affect the appearance of the final artwork. The production of such prints would have involved a division of labor, with different craftsmen responsible for the design, engraving, and printing. These prints were likely made in multiples, tying into wider social issues of labor, politics, and consumption. The game's mass production makes it accessible, reflecting the shift towards a consumer culture. Ultimately, this print challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft, as the same processes and materials could be used for both decorative and functional objects.