Antoine Coysevox 1708

Curator: This engraving of Antoine Coysevox by Jean Audran presents some interesting questions about artistic labor in the 18th century. Look at the detail in the tools depicted. Editor: Indeed! I'm fascinated by how Audran chose to represent Coysevox, not just as an artist, but with such prominent display of his tools. What does the inclusion of these tools suggest about the value placed on the craft itself? Curator: It highlights the means of production. Audran isn't just portraying Coysevox's artistry, but subtly drawing attention to the act of creation, and the materials involved in it. It makes one consider the socio-economic context of artistic production at that time. Editor: So, it's not just about the finished sculpture, but the whole process, the materials, and even the social status of the artist and engraver? I'll definitely look at prints differently now!