Antieke ruïnes 1713 - 1808

Hubert Robert made this print, ‘Antieke ruïnes’, using etching, a process reliant on acid and careful control of the printing plate. Notice how Robert's lines vary in thickness and density. This was achieved by applying wax to a copper plate, scratching through it to reveal the metal, then immersing it in acid. The acid bites into the exposed lines, creating grooves that hold ink. The longer the plate is exposed, the deeper and darker the lines become. The resulting print isn't just an image; it's a record of labor. The etcher’s skill in manipulating the acid bath, the printer's expertise in applying even pressure, and the quality of the paper all contribute to its value. Each print represents a cycle of production, from the artist's studio to the marketplace. Ultimately, this small print encapsulates a whole world of craft, commerce, and artistic vision. It reminds us that art is not just about what we see, but also about how it is made.