Cimon en Pero (Caritas Romana) 1857

Rombertus Julianus van Arum made this print, "Cimon en Pero (Caritas Romana)," using etching and possibly engraving. The image shows a woman breastfeeding an old, gaunt man in a prison cell. The stark contrast of light and shadow enhances the drama. This print isn't just a picture; it's a product of skilled handwork. Lines are incised into a metal plate, which holds ink to make the print. The tale of Roman Charity is about selflessness, but consider the labor. The artist would have spent hours meticulously working the plate. There's a real tension here, between the skilled production of the print, and the themes of sacrifice and survival in tough times. Looking at this print, think about how the artist’s labor and material process connect to the story it tells. This gives us a richer understanding of art and its place in society.