Boerderij met opkomende of ondergaande zon 1614

Boëtius Adamsz. Bolswert made this print, "Farm with Rising or Setting Sun," using engraving, a technique in which lines are incised into a metal plate. Look closely at the image, and you can discern the remarkable skill involved. The varying thickness and density of lines create a range of tones and textures, from the thatched roofs to the cloudy sky. The way that an engraving is made really informs its appearance. The artist would have used a tool called a burin to physically carve lines into the metal. This process requires immense control and precision, so the quality of the print is directly related to the engraver's expertise. Bolswert was one of the most sought-after printmakers of his day, which speaks to the broader social context of printmaking at the time. Engravings were a key means of disseminating images and ideas, acting as a kind of pre-photographic distribution network. They were also a means for artists to generate income. Paying attention to materials and making helps us to appreciate the artistry and cultural significance of this intricate print, reminding us that even seemingly simple images are the product of considerable labor and skill.