Putti dancing in a circle 1512 - 1525

This print of putti dancing in a circle was made by Marcantonio Raimondi in the early 16th century, using the technique of engraving. Engraving involves cutting lines into a metal plate, applying ink, and then pressing paper against the plate to transfer the image. The material of the metal plate – probably copper – is crucial here. It allows for the creation of fine, precise lines, which in turn give the putti their delicate, almost ethereal appearance. Look closely, and you can see how Raimondi used varying line weights to create a sense of depth and shadow. The ink sits on the surface of the paper, creating a slightly raised texture. Engraving was a highly skilled craft, requiring years of training to master, and was critical to the development of printmaking as a reproductive medium. It allowed for the dissemination of images and ideas, and it played a key role in the development of visual culture. By focusing on the labor and skill involved in its production, we can see the print not just as a picture, but as a testament to human ingenuity.