Prentverkoper 1769 - 1838

This etching of a print seller was made by Carlo Lasinio in the late 18th or early 19th century. The etching process, which involves using acid to incise lines on a metal plate, allowed for the relatively quick reproduction of images. Here, the material and process speak directly to the subject matter: a tradesman trying to make a living by selling prints. Notice how the fine lines create a sense of detail, yet the image retains a certain starkness, reflecting the realities of labor and commerce. Lasinio clearly had great skill with the etching needle, evident in the way he suggests depth and texture. Yet, the work is not striving for the preciousness associated with ‘high art’ at the time. It’s a document of everyday life, emphasizing the relationship between artistic production and economic activity. This challenges our traditional distinctions between fine art and the crafts of printmaking.