Vinden van Mozes c. 1745 - 1765

James McArdell created this mezzotint print, "The Finding of Moses," in the mid-18th century. Prints like this one were not just art objects; they played a crucial role in disseminating images and ideas throughout society. Based on a painting by Van Dyck, the print takes on a life of its own, shaped by the printmaking industry and the tastes of the British public. In 18th-century Britain, prints made art accessible to a broader audience, shaping popular perceptions of history and religious narratives. The print's circulation was managed by institutions that upheld social and political norms. Consider how the choice of subject matter—a biblical story—reinforces the cultural importance of religion. To fully understand this print, we can consult sources such as print catalogs, historical newspapers, and the records of printmakers' guilds. By examining these resources, we can understand the social life of images and appreciate how art reflects the values of its time.