The Mouth of the Apponigansett 1883

Robert Swain Gifford created this print, "The Mouth of the Apponigansett", using etching, a process with a fascinating history. The technique involves biting lines into a metal plate using acid, then inking the plate and pressing it onto paper to create a print. The quality of the final image depends entirely on the material properties and treatments of that metal plate. Consider the texture, weight, and malleability of the metal. Gifford would have manipulated the metal, exposing it to the mordant repeatedly to achieve the range of tones we see here, from the dark reflections in the water to the misty sky. He used line, tone, and texture to build up the image, capturing a sense of place and atmosphere. Gifford's choice of etching connects him to a rich tradition of printmaking, a medium often associated with accessibility and the dissemination of knowledge. The labor-intensive process also speaks to the artist's dedication. By considering the materials and making of this print, we gain a deeper appreciation for the artist's skill and the cultural context in which the work was created, reminding us of the artistry inherent in craft.