Wapen van Amsterdam 1639

This is an anonymous print of the Coat of Arms of Amsterdam, made using etching techniques sometime in the 17th century. The process of etching involves covering a metal plate with a waxy, protective layer, and then scratching an image into that layer with a fine needle, exposing the metal underneath. The plate is then immersed in acid, which bites into the exposed lines, creating grooves. After removing the wax and inking the plate, it can be pressed onto paper to transfer the image. The fine lines and delicate details of the coat of arms, including the lions and the crown, demonstrate the etcher's skill in manipulating the tools and materials. The act of creating the print, with its repetitive motions and potential for variation, parallels the burgeoning mercantile culture of Amsterdam at the time. Each print could be seen as a commodity, produced and distributed as emblems of civic pride. The amount of work involved speaks to the importance of the image, and its widespread dissemination would have reinforced Amsterdam’s identity.