The Virgin holding the infant Christ, a circular composition, after Reni 1595 - 1645

This print of The Virgin holding the infant Christ was made with etching, a printmaking technique that democratized image production in its time. An etcher covers a metal plate with a waxy ground, then draws through it with a needle to expose the metal. The plate is then immersed in acid, which bites into the exposed lines, creating grooves. Ink is applied to the plate, filling these grooves, and the surface is wiped clean. Finally, the plate is pressed onto paper, transferring the image. Look closely and you will see that the entire image is built from these etched lines, which create a delicate contrast to the blank paper. The ease of etching, compared to older printmaking methods, allowed for a greater distribution of imagery and a thriving market for reproductive prints. This particular print copies an image by the famous painter Guido Reni. Though anonymous, the etcher skillfully translated Reni's composition into a readily available format, inviting wider appreciation of his artistic vision. Remember, every artwork is a product of materials, making, and social context – factors that profoundly shape its meaning.