Tocht van Willem III naar Engeland, 1688 1688

Romeyn de Hooghe created this print in 1688, depicting William III's voyage to England. It's made using etching, a printmaking process with a rich history tied to the rise of capitalism. Etching involves coating a metal plate with wax, then drawing through the wax to expose the metal. Acid is applied, biting into the exposed lines, which are then inked to create the print. The fineness of the lines and the ability to create intricate details speak to the skilled labor involved. The medium also allowed for the wide distribution of imagery, and was essential to disseminating political messages. Consider how the etched lines capture the scale of the fleet and the dramatic sky. This print, as a multiple, could reach a wide audience, shaping public opinion about William's voyage. The act of making and distributing such prints was part of the broader shift towards mass communication and political mobilization. By understanding the materials and processes behind it, we can appreciate how this print participated in the grand narratives of its time.