Slager met varken op de rug 1769 - 1838

Carlo Lasinio produced this print of a butcher carrying a pig in Italy, sometime between the late 18th and early 19th century. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the social and economic realities of the time. The image creates meaning through several visual codes. The butcher, a working-class figure, is depicted with a pig slung over his shoulders, ready for sale at the market. The architecture in the background suggests a bustling urban setting. Italy at this time was a collection of states with distinct regional identities, each with its own economic system. Religious and social structures played a crucial role in everyday life, especially in the markets where people from all social classes met and interacted. The artwork's title, "Market View," suggests that it aims to depict the daily life of ordinary people. These images offer valuable insights into the social structures and economic activities of the time. To better understand the artwork, one could research local market customs, class structures, and the role of tradesmen in Italian society during this period. By combining formal analysis with historical research, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the artwork's cultural and social significance.