El grabado en la Real Academia de San Carlos de Nueva España, 1783-1810

The present article elucidates the position of engraving and its students at the Royal Academy of San Carlos in New Spain, from its foundation in 1783 to 1810. From letters, reports, and newspaper advertisements, the study draws information regarding the teaching and practice of engraving within the academy. From these sources comes new information about the students, their training, and the creation of their images. The article concludes that the engraving students at the Royal Academy of San Carlos occupied an ambiguous position within the institution and they found themselves confronted with personal difficulties as well as philosophical and pedagogical challenges during their tenures.