Aankomst van stoet met Maria de' Medici bij de triomfpoort bij de Vijgendam, 1638 1638

Salomon Savery created this print in 1638, depicting Maria de' Medici's arrival at the Vijgendam triumphal arch. The method? Engraving, a skilled technique involving carving lines into a metal plate to hold ink, then pressing it onto paper. The material itself – paper and ink – might seem humble, but the process speaks volumes. Engraving demands precision, patience, and a deep understanding of line and form. Look closely, and you’ll see how the density of the lines creates shadows, defining the architecture and the bustling crowd. Savery was not just documenting an event, but crafting an image, building depth and complexity through meticulous work. Prints like these were vital for disseminating information and celebrating power in the 17th century. They were a form of mass media, making grand events accessible to a wider audience. The labor-intensive nature of engraving, in contrast to the fleeting moment it captures, underscores the effort involved in shaping public perception. This print, therefore, is not just a picture, but a carefully constructed message, etched into existence.