Dedication to Lorenzo de' Medici 1617

Curator: This miniature etching, "Dedication to Lorenzo de' Medici" by Jacques Callot, is an interesting example of printed dedications. It’s a very small format piece. What do you think about it? Editor: It's beautiful and intricate! The text is so dense, it must have been a difficult process to create such a small, detailed work. What can you tell me about Callot's process and materials? Curator: Callot was a master printmaker, known for his technical innovations in etching. The materiality of the copperplate and the labor involved in its production are crucial here. How does understanding the printmaking process change your perception of the work? Editor: I guess I see it less as a simple greeting and more as a statement about Callot's skills and the value of his craft. Thanks for the insights! Curator: Precisely! By emphasizing the work and skill involved, it elevates the object beyond a mere token of gratitude.