Gekroond wapenschild met drie Franse lelies en een voorstelling met twee figuren 1833 - 1880

Curator: At first glance, the engraving feels formal, yet the image within the shield, depicting what looks like an annunciation scene, introduces an interesting narrative element. What do you make of it? Editor: It reminds me of something that could be replicated endlessly, doesn’t it? Printmaking facilitated mass production of imagery for different kinds of consumption, democratizing symbolic access but equally creating new class barriers to uniqueness and individuality. Let’s look closer. This is an engraving, by Auguste Numans, titled 'Crowned coat of arms with three French lilies and a performance with two figures'. It’s likely created between 1833 and 1880. Curator: Indeed. Numans lived in an era steeped in both romantic ideals and burgeoning industrialization. The choice of engraving, a reproducible medium, speaks volumes about the distribution and reach of imagery in that period, its public function. It’s interesting how historical context plays into this, wouldn’t you say? This work takes part in socio-political dynamics within imagery itself. Editor: Yes, absolutely. It also highlights the means of artistic production at the time. The technique, while skilled, is largely about the crafting process and replication—almost manufacturing. This engraving almost challenges the traditional understanding of unique art object. Curator: How so? Editor: By design. What we witness on the work is about the availability, not in uniqueness. And how does one place value then, onto what anybody can reproduce? Is there a labor dynamic implied to us that we should investigate more in the artist's choices? Curator: Fascinating points, truly. The convergence of medium, subject matter, and societal context gives this piece a resonance that transcends its seemingly straightforward heraldic presentation. What a lens into the artistic landscape of its time! Editor: Agreed. It highlights the democratization through medium, production values, and inherent value that those pose. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure, thanks to you, as well!