Artilleristen 1828 - 1853

Curator: The print, titled "Artilleristen," created sometime between 1828 and 1853, showcases a series of vignettes detailing the life of an artilleryman. As an engraving, its mass-producible nature interests me most. Editor: Yes, it’s striking how this whole narrative plays out across sixteen small frames, using only line. The poses and the repetitive gestures give it an almost rhythmic quality. What do you make of its composition? Curator: I see a careful consideration of the labor involved in military life, portrayed through the *means* of production available at the time – printmaking. Consider the socio-economic context. Broese and Comp. were book printers looking to disseminate information – and potentially, propaganda. This print provides insight into how such messages were consumed. Editor: Propaganda? So, the seemingly straightforward depiction of labor could be more pointed? Curator: Precisely. Notice how the individual is presented: uniform, task-oriented, seemingly devoid of individuality. This emphasizes the militaristic machine above individual agency. Also, consider the intended audience: how did its materiality affect its reception? Editor: That’s fascinating, the engraving becoming almost a cog in a larger machine of information and control! I hadn't thought about how the printing process itself contributes to the message. Curator: Exactly! We should always analyze the material reality alongside its potential interpretations. Editor: It’s incredible to consider how material constraints shaped the very image and its dissemination.