Cartouche met opdracht aan George Augustin von Stubenberg 1680

This is a print made by Mathäus Küsel around the mid-17th century. It's an engraving, meaning the design was incised into a metal plate, likely copper, and then printed onto paper. The material qualities of the print, its crisp lines and delicate shading, speak to the skill of the engraver. The process itself, requiring careful labor and specialized tools, reflects the growing importance of printmaking as a means of communication and artistic expression during this period. Engravings like this weren't just about aesthetics; they were also about disseminating information, celebrating patrons, and solidifying social networks. This particular print is dedicated to George Augustin von Stubenberg. The inscription is framed by a laurel wreath and ribbon. In essence, this print represents a gift, offered with ‘ingentis observantiæ suæ monumentum,’ a monument of his great respect. Prints like this existed in a world where artistic skill, patronage, and social status were closely intertwined. The print is a token of labor and a symbol of social connection.