Robinson-Spiel / Jeu de Robinson / Giuoco al Robinson / Robinson-spel 1829 - 1880

This board game, Robinson-Spiel, was made by firma Joseph Scholz, using printmaking techniques of engraving and etching, with added color. These processes are inherently reproductive, capable of generating many copies quickly. The imagery, spiraling inward to depict the narrative of Robinson Crusoe, is enabled by the printing press, which democratized images and stories like this one. The material of paper itself speaks to this accessibility, a stark contrast to the unique, hand-painted artworks enjoyed only by the elite. The fine lines and details achieved through etching show a high level of skill, while the hand-applied color suggests a small-scale production process, perhaps a workshop rather than a factory. This tension between mechanized reproduction and manual finishing highlights a pivotal moment in the history of both art and manufacturing. By understanding the materials and methods used, we can see how this game bridges the gap between craft and mass production, reflecting the changing social landscape of its time.