The Planet Jupiter 1807

Editor: Here we have John Flaxman's "The Planet Jupiter," date unknown. It's an ethereal sketch, and the ascending figures create such a sense of upward movement. What can you tell us about the historical context that shaped this piece? Curator: Flaxman's work, particularly his outline engravings, gained prominence because of the expanding print culture. "The Planet Jupiter" reflects the 18th-century interest in classical mythology, but more importantly, it democratized access to art. How do you see this print fitting into the broader art market of the time? Editor: That's a fascinating point! I hadn't considered the role of prints in making art more accessible. I'll definitely remember that moving forward. Curator: Indeed, the accessibility of art for the public good was a major concern of the time. It’s a reminder of how social and political forces shape artistic production and reception.