Blackwork Print with Birds and Grotesques Atop a Horizontal Panel, from a Series of Blackwork Prints for Goldsmiths' Work 1615

Etienne Carteron created this blackwork print for goldsmiths in 1615. The image presents a horizontal panel of intricate blackwork designs, adorned with birds and grotesque figures, offering a glimpse into the visual culture of the early 17th century. Made in France, this print reflects the era's fascination with ornament and the decorative arts. Carteron's work catered to the goldsmiths' trade. This print acted as a pattern book, which speaks to the crucial role of artisans and their guilds in shaping artistic production. The grotesque figures and intricate patterns not only showcase the technical skill of the engraver but also the cultural values placed on craftsmanship and luxury. The print itself is evidence of a network of artistic exchange, shaped by the needs and desires of a specific industry. Further study into guild records, artisan biographies, and the broader socio-economic context of 17th-century France would allow a deeper understanding of the historical and institutional forces that shaped this image.