Oude Belgische zegels 1837

This print, titled "Oude Belgische zegels," or Old Belgian Seals, was created by Charles Onghena, although the exact date is unknown. It presents a series of historical seals, likely reproduced through a printmaking process like etching or engraving. The fine lines and detailed imagery suggest that this artwork demanded significant skill and precision. Printmaking, particularly in the 19th century, involved a complex interplay of technical knowledge and artistic vision. The artist would have needed to be well-versed in the properties of the metal plate, the use of acids for etching, and the mechanics of the printing press. The use of printmaking as a medium is significant, because the process allows for the reproduction of images, making them accessible to a wider audience. This speaks to the rise of mass media and the commodification of images in the 19th century. Ultimately, prints such as these invite us to consider not only the imagery they depict but also the modes of production that enabled their creation and dissemination, blurring the boundaries between art, craft, and industry.