Vuur c. 1615 - 1630

Hans Janssen created this print, Vuur, or Fire, sometime in the early 17th century, using etching and engraving techniques. These processes involve cutting lines into a metal plate, inking it, and then pressing it onto paper to create a reverse image. The intricate details you see here are a testament to Janssen's skill with these demanding techniques. Notice the texture and depth achieved through varied line weights and densities. The design itself, filled with fantastical creatures and swirling forms, reflects the ornate style popular during the Baroque period. Prints like this one were not just artistic statements, but also commodities. They circulated widely, allowing designs and ideas to spread rapidly across Europe. This speaks to the burgeoning printmaking industry of the time, driven by skilled labor and fueled by a growing market for accessible art. Understanding this social context helps us appreciate the role of craft and its connection to wider economic and cultural forces.