Copy after the Figurine c. 17th century

Editor: This is "Copy after the Figurine" by Salvator Rosa, a print from the 17th century. The figures seem to be emerging from the ground. What strikes you about this work? Curator: I see a carefully constructed performance of labor. Rosa, the artist, is crafting an image of supposed spontaneity, yet the etching reveals the deliberate action of the hand, the labor involved. We are left to consider the cultural context of printmaking itself. Editor: So, you are more interested in the labor that created the print rather than the scene depicted? Curator: Precisely! What kind of tools were necessary to create this kind of work and how were they made? The focus on the material existence of this piece brings up interesting questions about labor and value. Editor: It's fascinating to think about the materials and processes behind the image itself. Thanks for sharing your perspective! Curator: And thank you for prompting a deeper look at the material production of this etching.