Titelprent met personificatie van de schilderkunst Possibly 1798

This print, made by Francesco Bartolozzi, uses a technique called stipple engraving. It was a popular method in the late 18th century for reproducing drawings. Rather than using lines to create tone and form, the stipple engraver employs a multitude of tiny dots, carefully placed to create the illusion of shading. Bartolozzi was a master of this technique, and here he uses it to create a soft, almost ethereal effect. The print depicts a female figure, likely a personification of drawing, surrounded by cherubs. The texture and weight of the lines are critical in understanding the image. The print is not just a reproduction of a drawing, it’s a testament to the skill and labor of the engraver. The image is built up dot by dot, demanding intense concentration and dexterity. In a sense, it elevates the status of the printmaker, from mere copyist to a creative artist in their own right. By appreciating the material process, we can better understand the social context in which it was made.