Trajans triumfbue. Bueslag set fra sydvest 1739

This print, Trajans triumfbue, was made by Teresa del Po in the late 17th or early 18th century. It is made of etching on paper, a process of using acid to cut into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. The fine lines and delicate shading reveal the artist's skill in controlling the etching process, which is critical to the overall visual effect. The material qualities of the paper, its texture and color, also play a subtle role in the artwork's appearance. Prints like this were often produced in multiples, making art more accessible to a wider audience. This relates to broader issues of labor and consumption; the relative ease of making prints meant that more people could afford to own them, and it supported a class of artisans who specialized in this type of work. Ultimately, understanding the materials and processes involved in creating this print enriches our appreciation of its social and cultural significance, while blurring distinctions between fine art and craft.