Lezende jongen 1721 - 1778

Curator: This is “Lezende jongen,” or “Reading Boy,” an etching by Johann Gottlieb Glume, dating from the 18th century. Editor: That kid looks mad. He’s really glowering at us, isn’t he? I wonder what story he's wrestling with, if he's scowling like that! Curator: It's fascinating how Glume captures such directness. The etching medium, with its delicate lines, emphasizes every crease in his brow and every button on his coat. It speaks to the democratization of art at that time; prints made art accessible to more people. Editor: Yes, look at the care Glume takes rendering the clothing-- almost fetishistic! Is he making some sort of implicit statement about the means of production? How the child's clothing seems valued equally as the knowledge they symbolize? And, how that small table nearly bleeds into the etched surface? Curator: It also allows for a certain intimacy, don't you think? I'm particularly drawn to the subtle modelling of the face, a very simple tonal range considering how emotional the piece ends up being. It makes me feel nostalgic. What if he is glowering because the story reminds him of something, some part of life he'd soon outgrow? Editor: Perhaps the simple tonal range is reflective of material constraints and accessibility. It highlights how this technique allowed more widespread consumption. Though I would expect him to smile while reading a children's story. It gives me more questions than feelings... Curator: Hmm, a different story, I suppose, in every heart. Even those of stubborn young boys in old etchings! I love how this little piece gives you such pause. Editor: Well, thank you for the insightful look. It's a piece that, on reflection, has me intrigued by the accessibility afforded by prints in that era and their ability to mirror evolving class dynamics.