Marriage, from "The Seven Sacrements" 1767

This print, Marriage, from "The Seven Sacraments," was made by Lorenzo Zucchi in the 18th century. It is an engraving, a process by which an image is incised into a metal plate, in this case probably copper, and then printed. The fine lines and subtle tonal gradations of the print are achieved through the skilled manipulation of the engraver's tools. Each mark required careful planning and execution, building up the image line by line. The labor and time involved in creating such a print are considerable, reflecting a culture where skilled handwork was highly valued. The act of engraving itself imbues the image with a sense of precision and permanence, mirroring the solemnity and commitment associated with the sacrament of marriage. We can consider the social and economic conditions that made such a detailed and laborious process possible. The print serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between art, labor, and cultural values in the 1700s. It challenges any simple distinction between fine art and skilled craft.