Ca' Foscari en Palazzo Balbi te Venetië 1741

This print, Ca' Foscari en Palazzo Balbi te Venetië, was made by Michele Marieschi in the 18th century. It’s an etching, a process that involves using acid to cut lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. The image shows Venice, with its grand buildings and bustling waterways. But look closer, and you'll notice the precision of the lines, the way the artist has captured the light on the water. This wasn't just a matter of artistic skill. It required a deep understanding of the materials and techniques involved in printmaking. Etching was a relatively new technology at the time, and it allowed artists to create multiple copies of their work, making art more accessible to a wider audience. The labor of the printmaker is embedded in every line, a testament to the skill and craft involved in the process. Understanding the materials and making of this print helps us appreciate the social and cultural context in which it was created. It challenges us to think about the relationship between art, technology, and society.