Gråbrødretorv i København 1755

Johan Jacob Bruun made this print of Gråbrødretorv in Copenhagen using etching techniques sometime in the 18th century. Look closely, and you'll see a whole world revealed by the lines etched into the metal plate. Consider the tools and techniques that Bruun would have employed, from preparing the metal plate to applying acid, and finally, the press used to transfer the image onto paper. The print's monochrome palette directs our attention to its fine lines and delicate textures. These capture the architecture of the square and the figures moving within it. But also the textures of everyday life – think of the rough stone paving, the wood of the carts, and the cloth of people's clothing. This level of detail would have taken intense labor. The method of production is critical here – etching allowed for the distribution of images, but also created a market for skilled printmakers. So, next time you encounter a print, consider the hands, tools, and processes involved in its creation. It is through this lens that we can fully appreciate the artistry and cultural significance embedded within.