Orfèvre Bÿoutier
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Purchased for the Museum by the Advisory Council
Accession Number
1921-6-344-10
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This 1762 print, titled *Orfèvre Bijoutier* (Goldsmith-Jeweler), was created by French artist J.R. Lucotte (1733–1784). Working in the mid-18th century, Lucotte produced detailed illustrations that documented skilled trades during a period of refined craftsmanship in France. As an engraving, the work belongs to a tradition of prints that made technical and artistic knowledge accessible beyond workshops and elite circles. Prints of this kind held special significance in the 18th century: they recorded tools, techniques, and workshop scenes with precision, serving both educational and documenta...