Landschap met galopperend paard c. 1590 - 1637

This etching of a galloping horse and landscape was made by Egbert van Panderen in the early 17th century. The image is created by incising lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed onto paper. It’s a relatively reproducible medium, yet it still demanded a lot of labor. Note the incredible control and precision of the etched lines, which describe the muscular tension of the horse and the depth of the landscape. The linear texture creates shading and volume, as well as a sense of movement and energy. Consider also the social context: printmaking emerged as a vital form of communication and commerce in the early modern period. By mastering the craft of etching, van Panderen was able to circulate his artistic vision widely and participate in a growing economy of images. And with this image, he brings all his considerable skill to bear on the depiction of power, speed, and the natural world. This speaks to the traditional values of fine art, while simultaneously being an exercise in commercial image-making.