Jesse c. 18th century

Editor: This is Domenico Cunego's engraving of "Jesse," housed at the Harvard Art Museums. The figure seems rather pensive. What can you tell me about the materials and the social context of its production? Curator: Observe the precise lines achieved through engraving, reflecting a skilled artisan’s labor. The inscription connects it to papal patronage. How does this process and context challenge notions of artistic genius? Editor: So, the value isn't just in the image, but also in understanding the work that went into producing it, and who was paying for it. Interesting. Curator: Exactly. Consider the economic forces at play in the creation and distribution of such images. Editor: Thanks, that definitely provides a different lens for viewing the work.