The Aged Gathering Around the Angel of Death and a Skeleton 1518

Editor: This is "The Aged Gathering Around the Angel of Death and a Skeleton" by Agostino Veneziano, created around the early 16th century. It's a pretty striking print. All these figures seem to be facing their mortality. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Well, look at the material—it's an engraving. This means the artist meticulously cut lines into a metal plate, forcing the printmaking process into existence through sheer labor. Notice how this allows for incredibly fine detail, emphasizing the decay and hardship of the figures. The social context of the plague years cannot be ignored either. Editor: So, the medium emphasizes the message? Curator: Precisely! The print medium itself made it possible to disseminate images of death and mortality widely, impacting how people consumed and confronted these anxieties. What do you make of that skeleton holding the skull? Editor: I guess art is all about process and how it affects society's view of mortality. Thanks! Curator: Absolutely, and don't forget the economic aspect of printmaking – art as a commodity.