Portret van Marie Antoinette, koningin van Frankrijk 1824

This is a portrait of Marie Antoinette, Queen of France, rendered in print by Nicolas Maurin, who was born in 1798. As a print, the artwork is inherently tied to the modes of production and capitalism. It is not a unique artwork, but part of a series, and its existence is tied to the economies of labor and class. This print is not just a portrait but a commodity, made using skilled techniques and tools, part of a wider history of creative practices and aesthetics. The subtle gradations in tone, from light to dark, create a sense of depth and volume, emphasizing the Queen's features and elaborate attire. Note the lace detailing of her dress, the pearls of her necklace, and the feathers in her hair. These would have taken enormous time and skill to replicate. Considering the materials and making processes helps us to understand the full meaning of the artwork, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.