Winged Victory holding a trophy of arms in her right hand and a shield in her left 17th - 18th century

Editor: This engraving, dating back to the 17th or 18th century, is entitled "Winged Victory holding a trophy of arms..." and is attributed to Cherubino Alberti. The fine lines that create the image look striking. How would you interpret the materiality and means of production in this piece? Curator: The meticulous process of engraving, etching lines into a metal plate and then using that plate to reproduce the image, highlights the labour involved. Consider what this signifies in terms of artistic value, that multiple impressions could be produced. And that these could be made and distributed relatively easily. Does this accessibility democratize the artwork? Or does it diminish its preciousness in comparison to, say, a unique painting? Editor: That's fascinating. So, instead of solely focusing on Alberti's skill, we are considering the social impact and reach enabled by this specific medium and production. It is printed rather than made from scratch like a sculpture. Curator: Precisely. The very act of engraving emphasizes dissemination, production for a market. The inscription also references ‘privilegio Summi Pontificis.’ What does it tell us that this kind of protection or privilege mattered? Who might benefit from this kind of work at the time, who might commission them, or consume them? Editor: So the papacy had influence over the distribution and the process of printing these works. Thinking about who would purchase it puts its artistic merit into question because it had the influence of someone else rather than Alberti solely. I am not entirely sure how I feel about this way to consider and value a piece. Curator: Exactly! Considering art within the sphere of economic relations lets us investigate deeper into its history. I found this enriching too. Editor: It gives me a better understanding about art making during this historical period. Thank you.