Two Satyrs Tending a Flock of Goats 

This print, "Two Satyrs Tending a Flock of Goats" was created by Herman van Swanevelt in the 17th century using etching. Here, the incised lines have an inherent graphic quality, with the sharp contrasts influencing the work’s appearance, its texture, weight, and form. Etching is a printmaking technique where a metal plate is coated with a waxy, acid-resistant material. The artist scratches an image into this coating, exposing the metal. When the plate is submerged in acid, the exposed areas are eaten away, creating recessed lines. These lines hold ink, which is then transferred to paper under pressure. Swanevelt demonstrates skilled techniques in both drawing and printmaking, engaging with the traditions of landscape art and print culture, the latter which was flourishing at the time. The labor-intensive process, from preparing the plate to pulling each print, reflects a significant investment of time and skill, tied to the growth of printmaking as both an artistic medium and a commercial enterprise. The beauty of the etching lies not only in its aesthetic appeal, but in the processes and contexts of its creation. This challenges our notions of art and craft as distinct categories, and shows us the value of each.