Inktverkoper c. 1576 - 1624

This is an engraving by Francesco Villamena, depicting an ink seller. Notice the ink seller's tools of trade hanging from the long stick across his shoulders: these are powerful symbols of commerce and craftsmanship. The figure’s staff is reminiscent of the caduceus, an ancient symbol associated with Hermes or Mercury, messenger of the gods and patron of merchants. Like the caduceus, the staff bridges the earthly and divine realms, suggesting the ink seller’s role in transmitting knowledge and facilitating communication through his craft. This symbol predates Villamena, appearing on ancient Greek pottery and Roman coins. Observe the ink seller’s confident stance and dignified attire. They elevate a common profession to a level of respectability and importance, subtly asserting the cultural value of literacy and the written word. These echo through time, demonstrating the human desire for connection across time, immortalizing the everyday, and giving the ink seller a presence that transcends his own era.