Gezicht op de kerk van Riddarholmen 1670

Jean Marot created this print of the Riddarholmen Church using the intaglio process. Lines were incised into a metal plate, likely copper, with a tool called a burin, and then filled with ink before being printed onto paper. The crisp, precise lines and tonal gradations showcase Marot’s skill, but it’s also worth noting the intense labor involved. Each line had to be physically cut into the metal, demanding time and expertise. This attention to detail reflects the value placed on craftsmanship. Prints like these played an important role in disseminating architectural ideas during the 17th century. They were a means of circulating designs, influencing building styles across Europe, and shaping our visual understanding of the world, turning buildings into commodities. So, when you look at this print, consider not just the image it portrays, but also the skilled labor and the broader social context that brought it into being.