Lafontaine Tales, Amsterdam 1730 - 1792

This print, "Lafontaine Tales," was made in Amsterdam by Joseph de Longueil. He most likely used a technique called engraving, meticulously incising lines into a metal plate. Ink would then be applied, and the plate pressed onto paper, transferring the image. The fine lines create a scene depicting a devil-like figure and a couple on a chaise lounge. The paper itself has a visible texture and weight, and it's within these engraved lines that the image truly comes to life. Engraving demands immense skill, patience, and precision. Each line contributes to the overall image, and the level of detail suggests many hours of labor, with specialized tools and practiced hands. The process transforms base metal into intricate and visually stunning works. Considering the labor and skill involved in its creation, it's clear that this print represents more than just an image. It's a testament to the intersection of art, craft, and social context, challenging any strict boundaries we might draw between them.