Plate 13: Psyche looking at Cupid, from "The Story of Cupid and Psyche as told by Apuleius" 1530 - 1560

This print, made by Agostino Veneziano around the 1500s, is a great example of how the relatively new technology of etching could translate classical stories into widely distributed images. Engraving and etching, the processes used to create this print, involve a lot of labor. The artist carefully incised lines into a metal plate, which was then inked and pressed onto paper. It’s a reproductive medium, but one requiring significant skill. The sharp, clear lines and intricate details of the scene, depict a moment from the story of Cupid and Psyche, demonstrating Veneziano's mastery of the technique. The very nature of printmaking makes art more accessible, breaking down traditional barriers between high art and the everyday consumer. Though the story of Cupid and Psyche would only be known by a certain educated class of people, through printmaking, the tale could be spread far and wide to delight and instruct. This reminds us that the materials and methods of making art are always tied to broader social dynamics, impacting who gets to participate in its creation and consumption.