Jonge vrouw in hoge armstoel aan spinnewiel 1830 - 1881

Adolphe Mouilleron made this print of a young woman at a spinning wheel using etching and engraving, sometime in the 19th century. These processes involve working an image into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. The fine, detailed lines, typical of engraving, create subtle shading and texture. These techniques have a long history, predating photography, and were often used for reproduction and illustration. However, they also required skilled labor. The spinning wheel itself speaks to a history of making textiles, before industrialization. It’s a reminder of the labor-intensive processes behind everyday materials. Mouilleron’s choice of subject matter reflects a fascination with pre-industrial modes of production. Considering the materials, the making, and the historical context, this print prompts us to consider the social and economic forces that shape our world, blurring the line between art and craft.