The Peasant in a Window 

Cornelis Bega created this etching, "The Peasant in a Window," using a copper plate, acid, and ink. The etched lines articulate the man's figure and the coarse texture of the wood framing him. Look closely, and you'll see the density of the lines creates the illusion of light and shadow. Bega has created depth through hatching; this gives the print its tonal range, from bright highlights to deep shadows. The acid bites into the metal, leaving behind grooves that hold the ink. Then, the plate is pressed onto paper, transferring the image. Etching was a revolutionary medium, allowing artists to create multiple originals. It democratized art-making, making images more accessible. Bega's choice of subject matter is relevant here, too. By depicting a common peasant, Bega elevates the everyday, inviting viewers to consider the lives of those often overlooked, thus questioning social hierarchies.