Keizer Jozef I in medaillon met Jupiter en Medusa 1751

Jean-Charles François made this print of Joseph I in the 18th Century, using engraving. The material here is paper, but the value lies in the artist’s labor. Engraving involves using a tool called a burin to cut lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. The fine lines create a sense of depth and texture, as well as a high level of detail. The artist would have needed precise control to achieve this, demonstrating their skill. The image, a carefully rendered portrait of Joseph I, also involves complex visual symbolism referencing both classical mythology and the wealth of the Austrian empire. Consider the labor involved in producing paper, ink, and the printing press itself. The print represents a confluence of skilled handcraft and industrial processes, reflecting a society in transition. Looking at this print, we can appreciate how materials, making, and context intertwine, challenging traditional boundaries between art, craft, and industry.