Ontzet van Wenen, 1529 1555 - 1556

Dirck Volckertsz Coornhert created this print, ‘Ontzet van Wenen, 1529,’ using engraving techniques. The lines you see aren't drawn but rather cut into a metal plate, likely copper, with a tool called a burin. Ink is then applied to the plate, and the surface wiped clean, leaving ink only in the incised lines. Paper is then pressed against the plate, transferring the image. Consider how this process impacts the artwork's appearance. The sharp, precise lines create a sense of detail and drama, perfectly capturing the chaos of battle. This print was likely made in multiples, each requiring labor to produce. Prints like these circulated widely, disseminating information and shaping public opinion, playing a role in the political and social landscape. By understanding the processes and context of making, we gain a richer appreciation for the artwork's significance beyond its aesthetic appeal.