Vogelen 1843 - 1876

This illustrated print, titled ‘Vogelen’, was created by Mozes Henriquez Pimentel at an unknown date, using engraving. The use of engraving for the pictures and text is significant. As a mechanical process it allowed for the mass production of images and information, a crucial element in the dissemination of knowledge and culture during the 19th century. The depicted scenes of birds in various settings, along with accompanying text, indicate the print served an educational purpose, likely intended for young audiences, and the way this was made is directly tied to the consumption of knowledge in the 19th century. The engraving technique involves skilled labor and precise execution, reflecting the growing commodification of artistic and technical skills during that period. The choice of engraving as a medium highlights the intersection of art, education, and commerce in 19th-century society. Considering the print's materials, making, and context allows us to understand its role in shaping cultural values, and its accessibility to different social classes, challenging traditional distinctions between art and craft.