De ezel en de leeuwenhuid c. 1843 - 1920

This is a print titled "De ezel en de leeuwenhuid", or "The donkey and the lion's skin", by the artist E. Ille. It's a modest work, made using the fairly accessible technology of etching, allowing for the reproduction of multiple copies. Its very nature speaks to a wider social context and the dissemination of knowledge and stories through printed media. The linear quality of the print emphasizes line and form, creating depth and texture through carefully placed marks. The artist uses hatching and cross-hatching to model the figures and landscapes, giving volume to the characters within each frame of the narrative. The story unfolds through a sequence of nine images, each a testament to the power of visual storytelling in printmaking. By appreciating the materials and processes behind its creation, we gain insight into the cultural and social significance of this accessible artwork. It serves as a reminder of the potential of printmaking to engage and inspire, blurring the lines between fine art and everyday communication.