Reverse Copy of Le Crucifiement (The Crucifixion), from La Petite Passion (The Little Passion) 1624 - 1700

This anonymous print, Reverse Copy of Le Crucifiement (The Crucifixion), is made with etching, a printmaking technique that uses acid to corrode the unprotected parts of a metal surface to create a design in intaglio (incised) in the metal. The labor-intensive method of etching is integral to the print's aesthetic. The intricate lines, the result of careful acid work, create a complex interplay of light and shadow. This adds depth and drama to the scene of the Crucifixion. Note the delicate details achieved through skilled manipulation of acid and metal. The printmaking process itself embodies a tension between the artist’s intention and the material’s inherent properties. This print invites us to consider how traditional methods of production, which require intense skill and time, shape our understanding and appreciation of the artwork. By focusing on the "how" of making, we can move beyond subject matter and delve into the significance of craft, skill, and labor that challenge traditional distinctions of fine art.