Gezicht op de fontein van de Giardino Montalto bij de Thermen van Diocletianus te Rome 18th century

This print by Paquier, depicts a view of the fountain in the Giardino Montalto, capturing the space with remarkable detail through etching and engraving. The process begins with the incising of lines into a metal plate, traditionally copper, which is then inked and pressed onto paper. Note the precision of the lines, which create form and texture, and allow for the fine details seen in the architecture, the figures, and the water features of the fountain. The skilled craftsmanship needed for this sort of printmaking highlights an interesting tension. On one hand, it's a mechanical process, capable of reproducing images in multiples, and speaks to the rise of print culture and information dissemination. Yet, on the other hand, each print still requires a high degree of hand skill. The creation of the plate, the inking, and the printing all demand careful work. Looking at this image, consider the labour and time involved in its production. These prints were not only artistic statements, but also products of a specific social and economic context, reflecting the intersections of art, craft, and industry. By recognizing the artistry of the printmaker, we elevate the status of craft and challenge the traditional hierarchy between art forms.