Uit de dierenwereld 1850 - 1881

This undated print, ‘Uit de dierenwereld’, by William Henry Freeman, is from a print factory, suggesting a mode of production which is neither unique nor precious. Printed using engraving, a mechanical reproduction process, the image is made up of thin lines incised into a printing plate. The pressure and labor required to carve the images into the metal printing plate, and the knowledge required to operate the printing press, speaks to a sophisticated, industrial method, distinct from the supposed aura of fine art. The images present a narrative, perhaps of predator versus prey. The drawing style reinforces the message of the animal world being one of struggle and survival. The composition mimics the form of a page in a children's book, as do the captions, indicating that it was made for mass consumption. In this context, the print challenges the idea of the artist as a singular genius. Instead, it highlights the importance of the printing process, and the social context in which it was made.