Zinnebeelden des profeets Davids 1806 - 1830

Johan Noman made this print, “Zinnebeelden des profeets Davids,” using etching on paper. The process of etching involves biting into a metal plate with acid to create an image, allowing for intricate lines and details. Looking closely, you can see how the etcher has used a variety of line weights and densities to create shading and depth. This is a very labor-intensive process, demanding careful preparation and skilled execution. The final print then becomes a multiple, as many impressions can be pulled from a single plate. Prints like this one would have been relatively accessible, allowing for the wide distribution of religious and moral narratives. As a result, they played a significant role in shaping popular culture and understanding during the 19th century. The material and the making of this etching – from the labor in the studio to the dissemination of imagery – reflect the social and economic forces at play. It’s a reminder that even seemingly simple works on paper carry a rich history of production and consumption.