Scharensliep 1688 - 1724

This print, Scharensliep, was made by Jacob Gole in the late 17th or early 18th century, using engraving techniques. Here we see a knife grinder at work, his whole body engaged in the task. Notice the portable grinding wheel – a wooden frame supporting a stone that he rotates with a foot treadle. This allowed him to bring the means of production directly to his customers. The smoke billowing from his pipe emphasizes his concentrated labor; a detail that adds an element of human presence to the scene. Prints like these played an important role in documenting the trades and everyday lives of ordinary people. The sharp lines and tonal variations achieved through engraving bring a sense of realism to the composition, and elevate what might otherwise be considered a mundane subject. By focusing on the tools and processes of craft, Gole reminds us of the value of skilled labor and the importance of making in society. It’s a perspective often overlooked in traditional art history, but one that enriches our understanding of the past.