Vier voorstellingen van een staand figuur met kind 1777 - 1779

This print was made by Pieter de Mare in the late 18th century, using etching and engraving techniques. The incised lines create a series of four scenes, each depicting a standing figure with a child. Look closely, and you can see the subtle differences in the marks that define form and texture. The controlled, precise lines of engraving define the figures, while the more fluid, textured lines of etching add depth and shadow. The printmaking process allowed for the reproduction of images, making art more accessible to a wider audience. This reflects the changing social and economic landscape of the time, where the rise of a merchant class created a demand for art that represented their everyday lives. The artist's choice of subject matter - everyday figures, and a focus on family life - speaks to the values of this emerging middle class. Considering the materials, making, and context allows us to understand the full meaning of the artwork, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.