Landscape with Ruins and Fountain 1745 - 1775

This print, Landscape with Ruins and Fountain, was made in the 18th century by Fabio Berardi using etching. The image is created by incising lines into a metal plate with acid, a process that demands careful control and expertise. Berardi was a skilled printmaker, and you can see this in the precision of the lines and the subtle gradations of tone. Look closely, and you'll notice how the etched lines vary in thickness and depth, creating a sense of depth and texture. In terms of labor, etching was a specialized craft, requiring years of training to master. The work involved physical strength to manipulate tools, patience, and attention to detail. The print itself could be reproduced many times, which speaks to the changing economy of art in the 18th century. Prints like this one were affordable and accessible, which made art more widely available. Berardi's landscape captures a moment in time, inviting us to reflect on the connections between art, labor, and society.