Bust of woman with wide open mouth and up-turned nose, wearing large flat turban with cloth hanging down behind in profile to right 1665

Wenceslaus Hollar created this print, "Bust of woman with wide open mouth", in 1663 using etching. The etching process involves covering a metal plate with a waxy ground, and then drawing through it with a needle to expose the metal. The plate is then immersed in acid, which bites into the exposed lines. This creates grooves that hold ink, which is then transferred to paper under pressure. Look closely, and you'll notice how Hollar's delicate lines define not just the woman's features, but also the texture and form of her elaborate turban and dress. The cross-hatching builds up areas of shadow, adding depth to the image. Printmaking was crucial to the distribution of images, allowing artists to reach a wide audience. Hollar, in particular, made a career out of reproducing the work of other artists, as the inscription Leonardo da Vinci indicates. By focusing on materials, making, and context, we can appreciate the artistry and cultural significance of this print, challenging any traditional divide between fine art and craft.