Staande figuur met degen 1732 - 1740

Jacques Philippe Le Bas created this print, *Standing Figure with Sword*, using etching, a process that democratized image-making in the 18th century. Etching allowed for the relatively quick reproduction of images. The artist covers a metal plate with a waxy, acid-resistant ground. They then draw through this ground with a needle, exposing the metal. When the plate is dipped in acid, the drawn lines are etched into the surface. Ink is applied, and the plate is pressed onto paper, transferring the image. In this print, we see how Le Bas used the etching technique to create a delicate balance of line and shadow, capturing the texture and drape of the figure’s clothing. The fineness of the etched lines allows for intricate detail, particularly in the rendering of the feathers and the folds of fabric. This level of detail reflects not only the skill of the artist but also the increasing demand for visual information in a rapidly expanding consumer culture. By understanding the materials and techniques behind *Standing Figure with Sword*, we gain insight into the social and economic context of its creation. It reminds us to consider the labor, tools, and technologies that shape our visual world, challenging the perceived divide between art and craft.