Marie de'Medici's Entry into Amsterdam in 1638 1638 - 1639

Jan Martszen de Jonge made this etching of Marie de'Medici's entry into Amsterdam in 1638, utilizing the traditional printmaking technique of etching. The fine lines that define the scene are achieved by drawing into a wax-coated metal plate with a sharp needle, then exposing it to acid. This process allows for a level of detail that captures the opulence of the procession, emphasizing the social context of the event. The etched lines articulate the textures of fabrics, the gleam of armor, and the elaborate carriage. Consider the labor involved; from the skilled hands of the printmaker to the unseen craftsmanship in the depicted carriage, where every detail reflects wealth and power. Etchings like this were often made as commemorative records, and also became part of the developing print market that provided images for a wider audience. The image’s fine lines and tonal range, achieved through careful manipulation of the etching process, invite us to contemplate the intersections of fine art, craft, and the social theater of the time.