De maaltijd 1890

This print, "The Meal," was made by the Norwegian artist Nils Gustav Wentzel. It’s an etching, a printmaking process where lines are incised into a metal plate with acid, then inked and pressed onto paper. Look closely, and you'll notice how the etched lines vary in thickness and density. This affects the tone and texture of the image, giving it a grainy, almost photographic quality. The artist likely used different tools and techniques, to achieve the desired effects of light and shadow, capturing the intimate setting of a family meal. The act of etching itself is labor-intensive, demanding great skill. Traditionally, printmaking served a crucial role in disseminating information and imagery, enabling the circulation of images far and wide. In this case, Wentzel's choice of the etching process, with its inherent reproducibility, aligns with the image of the working class family at the table, underscoring the value of labour and the necessity of sustenance. Approaching this print through the lens of craft reminds us of the social and economic contexts that shape both its subject matter and its means of production.