Fotoreproductie van een prent van een gezicht op het Marienturm paviljoen in het park Monrepos in Vyborg before 1875

This is a photomechanical reproduction of a print, made by M. Seifert, depicting the Marienturm pavilion in Monrepos Park, Vyborg. The printmaking process itself involves a fascinating combination of technical skill and material knowledge. To create this image, the artist would have started with a photograph, then transferred the image onto a printing plate. The plate is inked and pressed onto paper, in order to make multiple, identical copies. The appearance of the image is directly influenced by this method. Notice the monochrome palette, and fine lines that define the pavilion’s architecture. These are all consequences of the printing process, which favors clarity and duplication. Printmaking democratized image-making, allowing for the widespread distribution of visual information. This technology reflects the social and economic forces of its time, including the rise of mass production and consumption. Considering the materials, techniques, and context of this print invites us to appreciate the history of image-making. It challenges us to look beyond the image itself, and consider the role of craft, design, and materiality in shaping our world.