Bladzijde met uitgeversmerk, 1712 1712

Curator: Here we have an engraving from 1712, titled "Bladzijde met uitgeversmerk," which translates to "Page with publisher's mark," created by an anonymous artist. The Baroque stylistic elements are evident, even in this small print. Editor: It feels very austere. The composition is quite contained, geometric almost, despite the flourishes and curves. The heavy black lines on the light ground paper lend a sense of seriousness. What catches my eye immediately is that pelican. Curator: Yes, the central emblem depicts a pelican in its piety, framed within an elaborate cartouche flanked by nude figures. Observe the incised lines; the artist meticulously rendered texture, shadow and form despite the limitations of the medium. Editor: The pelican symbol itself speaks volumes. It’s a deeply resonant image of sacrifice and nurture – the mother bird piercing her own breast to feed her young with her blood. A powerful Christian symbol, suggestive of Christ's sacrifice. And notice the Latin phrase worked into the border? "Sanguine pelicanus alit"... Curator: ...which means "The pelican feeds with its blood," yes. From a formal perspective, the lettering almost becomes an abstract design element integrated into the frame. The stark contrast between text and image contributes to the work’s visual tension. Consider also the figure on either side, their posture, echoing the central form. Editor: Those figures...their placement almost as if guarding the emblem. What is interesting to me, are the cultural resonances between them. It highlights both the giving of life and sustenance as the key symbol; an affirmation to the protection afforded the reader of this edition. I find it all profoundly moving. Curator: Indeed. This small page provides a glimpse into the intricate world of early 18th century printing, showcasing the symbiosis of text, image, and ideological intent, but above all; craftsmanship and structural beauty. Editor: So much information and complex history packed into this small space. I now see it as a small vessel filled with meaning.