Vrouw met soepterrine en papegaai 1831 - 1899

This print, now in the Rijksmuseum, depicts a woman carrying a soup tureen, accompanied by a parrot. It was created by an anonymous artist using a technique called etching, which involves using acid to create lines on a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. The quality of the printmaking process has a huge influence on the image's aesthetic. The etched lines give the image a crisp, detailed appearance, with subtle gradations of tone that add depth and texture. The process would have required skill and precision, reflecting a tradition of craftsmanship. Consider the social context: the depiction of domestic life and exotic pets reflects the values and interests of the merchant classes. The labor involved in producing the print, from the initial drawing to the printing process, also speaks to broader social issues of work and consumption. Examining the materials and making of this print provides insights into the world it depicts and the values it represents.