Azië 1768 - 1771

Jean Charles Delafosse made this print, "Asie", using etching techniques in the late 18th century. Notice the intricate linework, achieved by drawing through a wax-coated metal plate, which is then submerged in acid. This process allows for incredible detail, evident in the ornate neoclassical design. The print is all about surface, but it depicts three-dimensional forms. Note how the etching brings out the texture of the architectural elements, the lushness of the garlands, and the varied surfaces of the vases. Delafosse’s printmaking relied on skilled labor. This wasn't just about artistic vision, it required technical expertise. The sharp lines and tonal variations speak to the etcher’s mastery of the medium. By focusing on the labor and skill embedded in this print, we move beyond merely admiring its aesthetic qualities. We start to appreciate how the modes of production – the labor of the artist, the chemical process of etching – infuse the print with meaning.