Vier cartouches met monogrammen 1690 - 1710

These four cartouches with monograms were etched by Gerrit Visscher. Etching is an printmaking process where lines are incised into a metal plate, often copper. The plate is covered with a waxy ground which is resistant to acid. The artist then scratches off the ground with a pointed tool where he wants a line to appear in the final print, exposing the bare metal. The plate is then immersed in acid, which eats into the exposed lines. Looking closely at the prints, notice the precision of the lines, and the repeating baroque motifs like scrolls, foliage, and masks. This reflects the engraver's skill in handling tools and acid to achieve the desired tonal effects. The creation of prints like these was labor-intensive, involving careful preparation and printing. This suggests a highly skilled and specialized printmaking trade, often overlooked as 'craft' rather than 'art'. Yet, it's clear that understanding these production processes is essential to appreciating the level of artistry involved.