The Barber 1632 - 1633

This print, titled "The Barber," was made by Abraham Bosse in the 17th century using engraving techniques. The lines that define the image were carved into a metal plate, likely copper, with a tool called a burin. This labor-intensive process allowed for detailed replication, making the image accessible to a wider audience. Bosse was known for depicting scenes of daily life, and this print offers a glimpse into the culture of grooming and fashion during that time. The barber wasn't just cutting hair, he was also a figure of social importance, involved in shaping one's public image. This was a commercial transaction, reliant on skilled labor. The print’s fine lines and carefully rendered textures also draw attention to the economic context of the scene; a wealthy man being groomed in his private quarters. Bosse uses the technique of engraving to capture the essence of social status, reminding us that even seemingly mundane activities are shaped by broader economic forces.