Karolingische grafstenen 1857 - 1864

These Karolingische Grafstenen, or Carolingian Gravestones, are anonymous engravings made sometime during the Carolingian dynasty. These prints demonstrate the engraver's skilled understanding of line work, which allows for a sense of depth and texture. The linear method used, where the image is constructed from numerous fine lines, demands both precision and patience. This methodical approach mirrors the labor-intensive traditions of stone carving. The choice of engraving as a medium is significant, as printmaking facilitates the reproduction and distribution of imagery. This act democratizes access to the original form of the carved gravestones, connecting to wider social issues of labor and class. The transition of labor from stone carving to printmaking mirrors broader trends of industrialization, emphasizing the importance of materials, making, and context in understanding the social significance of art.