Greeting Card 1810

This Greeting Card was made by Johannes Endletzberger, probably in Austria, out of paper, pigment, and metal leaf. The raised composition imitates the style of much larger, luxurious objects such as gold-embroidered textiles, and jewelry. Notice how the vase of flowers, with its combination of gold and blue, mimics expensive enameled metalwork. The method of production is very delicate, and must have required great concentration and a certain level of skill. We can only imagine the long hours spent carefully cutting out the metallic elements and adhering them to the surface. The text at the bottom adds an intimate touch. This Greeting Card shows us that the distinction between ‘high’ art and ‘craft’ is not so clear after all. It has the intimate character of a handmade keepsake, but seeks to impress through careful labor and precious materials.