Jonge vrouw met gebogen hoofd 1665 - 1738

Carel de Moor II created this etching, "Young Woman with Head Bent," using an iron plate and etching tools. The image is a symphony of etched lines, each carefully placed to define the delicate features of the woman. Notice the fine, close hatching used to create shadows, giving depth and volume to her face and hair. The etching process involves drawing into a waxy ground, then bathing the plate in acid, which bites away at the exposed metal. This creates grooves that hold ink, which is then transferred to paper. The character of the metal plate significantly influences the final print. Iron plates, common at the time, impart a certain warmth and softness to the lines compared to, say, copper. This print isn’t just an image; it is a record of de Moor's skillful manipulation of materials, combined with his artistic vision. Consider the labor involved in creating such a detailed image. Each line represents a conscious decision, a skilled mark made with precision and care. This intimate connection between the artist, the material, and the process is what makes the print so compelling, a testament to the artistry inherent in craft.