Penning ter ere van Karel XII van Zweden met versierde lijst 1647 - 1714

Curator: This is "Penning ter ere van Karel XII van Zweden met versierde lijst," created between 1647 and 1714 by Sébastien Leclerc I. It's a print, combining engraving and ink. What are your first thoughts? Editor: It has a very formal, almost propagandistic feel. The detailed border and the central medallion depicting Charles XII… It's intricate! What strikes you most about it? Curator: Well, I'm immediately drawn to the labour embedded in its creation. Consider the process of engraving, the meticulous tooling of the metal plate, the pressure applied to create the print. It wasn't merely Leclerc's vision, but the collective effort of artisans enabling the dissemination of this royal image. Does this elaborate frame speak to that in any way, you think? Editor: I see what you mean. The frame, with all its decorative elements, suggests that even the presentation of the image was a significant undertaking, consuming time and resources. Perhaps it highlights the importance attached to this royal depiction? Curator: Exactly. This image isn't just about Charles XII; it's about the entire system of production and the social context within which it was created and consumed. Consider also the dissemination of this print. Who was meant to receive it? Editor: Presumably, people of status? To reinforce power dynamics. So this isn’t just a portrait, but evidence of production methods of power at the time? Curator: Precisely! And challenging the traditional separation of "high art" and "craft." Editor: I hadn't considered the labour and the network of makers that underpinned this seemingly straightforward image of power. Thanks for showing me what to look for. Curator: My pleasure. Thinking about materiality allows us to go beyond just aesthetic appreciation.