Satyr and Peasant's Family c. 18th century

Editor: This is Christian Wilhelm Ernst Dietrich's "Satyr and Peasant's Family". I am immediately drawn to the details of daily life and the contrast with the mythological creature. What can you tell me about the making of this etching? Curator: The etching process itself is crucial. Think about the labor involved in producing this image - the acid biting into the metal plate, the skilled hand guiding the needle. How does the printmaking technique contribute to the work's commentary on social class and the means of representation? Editor: That makes me consider the mass production of prints and their affordability. It's interesting to consider how art could become accessible and how that would challenge traditional boundaries. Thanks for that.