Onderboezem, schacht gedecoreerd met Venus en Cupido 1642

This print of a chimney breast decorated with Venus and Cupid was made by an anonymous artist, and we don't know exactly when. The image is made by incising lines on a metal plate to hold ink, then transferring that to paper. This reproductive technology enabled the mass production of designs like this, and its circulation to workshops. It is also a reminder that craft objects—even unique ones—often depend on graphic templates for their creation. Notice the way the design combines classical motifs, like the figures of Venus and Cupid, with architectural elements. It suggests the chimney breast was crafted from wood or plaster. It evokes a sense of luxury and refinement, while being relatively accessible thanks to the printmaking process. Ultimately, this print prompts us to reflect on the interplay between traditional craftsmanship, mass production, and social class. It challenges traditional distinctions between high art and craft, revealing the cultural and economic forces that shape our aesthetic preferences.