Claudia Octavia 1620 - 1664

Stefano della Bella made this print, Claudia Octavia, in the mid-17th century using the etching technique. Etching involves coating a metal plate with wax, then scratching into the wax to expose the metal. When acid is applied, it bites into these exposed lines, creating grooves that hold ink. The plate is then wiped clean, leaving ink only in the etched lines, and printed onto paper under high pressure. Notice the incredible detail achieved through this method, especially in the delicate rendering of Claudia Octavia’s dress and the throne she sits upon. The image is a testament to Della Bella’s mastery of the etching process. Consider the labor involved in creating such a detailed image by hand; the careful application of wax, the precise scratching of lines, and the expert handling of acid and ink. Prints like this were produced in multiples, making images more accessible to a wider audience. This connects the artistry to the emerging culture of mass production and consumption. It invites us to think about the relationship between craft, artistry, and the wider social and economic context of the time.