Carpenter c. 1686 - 1688

Giuseppe Maria Crespi created this print titled "Carpenter." The stark contrast between the etched lines and the white paper emphasizes the figures, drawing us into their implied dialogue. Note how the composition is structured around a simple horizontal plane upon which the two figures stand. The carpenter on the left, seen from the back, carries long planks, his body turned slightly, suggesting movement and weight. The figure on the right, leaning on a staff, gestures towards the carpenter, possibly directing or instructing. Crespi masterfully uses line and form to render the textures of the fabrics and the physical presence of the men, their gestures conveying a sense of everyday labor. The use of line, while economical, gives volume to the figures and depth to the scene. The texture achieved through etching invites us to consider the social context of the work, a study of ordinary people engaged in their trades. Ultimately, this work exemplifies how simple forms can become a cultural document, reflecting and shaping the perceptions of work and class in Crespi’s time.