Antiope 1634 - 1645

Gilles Rousselet made this engraving, Antiope, sometime in the 17th century. The image is made by incising lines into a metal plate, inking it, and then pressing it onto paper, a process that allowed for the wide distribution of images. Look closely at the density of the lines that create this image. Varying the proximity and thickness of lines allows for the creation of tone, depth, and texture, giving shape to Antiope's flowing garments, feathered helmet, and reflective shield. Notice the architectural details in the background, suggesting a classical setting for this mythological figure. Prints like this were crucial in disseminating artistic ideas and styles. It would have taken time and skill to create this image through engraving, a labour-intensive practice, but then its beauty could be distributed widely, to anyone who could afford a copy. Understanding this process helps us appreciate how art and knowledge were circulated in early modern Europe.