Gezicht op Middelburg 1647 - 1699

This print of Middelburg, made by an anonymous artist, would have been created by incising lines into a copper plate, inking it, and running it through a press. These are industrial materials and processes, a means of production that allowed for the wide distribution of images. Notice how the sharp, precise lines capture the architectural details of the city, from the towering spires to the bustling harbor. The artist's skillful manipulation of the copper plate transforms a hard, unyielding material into a delicate and informative image. The act of making this print is tied to wider social issues of labor, politics, and consumption. The production of prints like these supported a whole industry of engravers, printers, and distributors, and also offered a way to promote trade and civic pride. The amount of work involved in creating this intricate image is considerable, reflecting the value placed on skilled craftsmanship. By attending to the materials, making, and context of this print, we can appreciate its full meaning and challenge traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.