Gezicht te Mont-Saint-Jean 1842

This print, titled ‘Gezicht te Mont-Saint-Jean,’ was made by H. Gerard. The printmaking process used to create this image is significant. The image is composed of thousands of tiny etched lines. These lines form through the use of acid to corrode the non-protected parts of a metal plate in order to create a design in relief. The plate is inked and then pressed onto paper to create a print. The fineness of these lines gives the image an incredible level of detail. If you look closely, you can see the texture of the buildings, the details of the people’s clothing, and the trees in the distance. The act of printmaking itself democratized art, as it allowed images to be reproduced and disseminated widely. This made art more accessible to a broader audience. As you look at this print, consider the labor and skill involved in creating such an image. Through close observation of the materials and processes involved, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the print, and its cultural significance.