Titelprent met twee voeten 1773

This print, "Titelprent met twee voeten," was made by Jean François Janinet in the late 18th century. The sepia ink gives a warm tone to the cold subject of detached feet. It’s a reminder that even the most refined images are made by physical means. The printmaking process, likely involving etching or engraving, highlights the labor-intensive nature of image production before photography. Each line is carefully incised, demanding precision and skill. The choice of feet as a subject is interesting, too. They are typically hidden in the history of portraiture and stand in stark contrast to the faces of the aristocracy. In a world increasingly defined by mass production, Janinet’s print reminds us of the value of skilled handwork and the artistic potential found even in the most humble materials. It’s a testament to the power of craft to elevate the everyday, challenging the traditional hierarchy between art and craft.