Drie kaarsendragers before 1692

Alexis Loir created this print of three candle stands, sometime before his death in 1713. It is made using engraving, a printmaking process that involves cutting a design into a metal plate, inking the plate, and then pressing it onto paper. The material quality of this engraving influences its appearance. The sharp lines and fine details are characteristic of the engraving process, creating a sense of precision and clarity. The depiction of complex forms of candle stands requires great skill and labor-intensive work. Each line on the plate had to be carved with a burin, a specialized engraving tool. This print belongs to a wider history of decorative arts and design, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship valued in the 17th and 18th centuries. The designs suggest skilled metalworking traditions, now captured in print. The making process reflects the era's emphasis on skilled handwork, before the advent of industrial production. Looking closely at materials and processes, this print bridges the worlds of fine art and craft.