De walvis wordt door vissers gezien, 1682 1682

This print, "The whale is seen by fishermen," was made by Abraham de Blois in 1682. The image is not painted, but rather etched into a metal plate, then printed onto paper; a process allowing for the wide distribution of images. The stark black lines that define the whale, the sea, and the figures are testament to the labor-intensive process of engraving. The artist carefully incised lines to create this scene. These lines aren't just descriptive; they convey texture, movement, and atmosphere. Notice the fishermen and their boats. This image exists at a fascinating intersection of marine biology, maritime industry, and printmaking. These skilled trades have allowed both the artist and the fishermen to make a living from materials found in the natural world. It serves as a reminder that the materials, making, and context are crucial to understanding an artwork's full meaning, bridging the gap between fine art and craft.