Marie-Antoinette feeding the birds at the Trianon 1865

Joel Ballin created this print, "Marie-Antoinette feeding the birds at the Trianon," in the 19th century using a method called steel engraving. This was an industrial technique, allowing for many copies to be made, bringing images to a wide audience. Look closely, and you'll see how the fine lines of the engraving define the textures of fabric, foliage, and even the delicate feathers of the birds. Steel engraving requires a high degree of skill and precision. The artist would have used specialized tools to cut lines into the steel plate, holding the burin firmly to remove tiny lines of metal. Consider the social context implied by this choice of subject. The print romanticizes Marie-Antoinette, portraying her in a domestic setting, far removed from the political turmoil that ultimately led to her execution. By choosing steel engraving, Ballin made this vision of royalty accessible, a commodity for consumption, even as the memory of the French Revolution still resonated. This print is a fascinating intersection of artistry, industry, and the enduring power of image-making.