De heilige Agnes 1590

This depiction of Saint Agnes was made by Ventura Salimbeni, using etching – a printmaking process. It shows his artistry but also reveals the historical context in which it was produced. Etching involves covering a metal plate with a waxy, protective layer. The artist then scratches an image into this layer, exposing the metal. When acid is applied, it bites into the exposed lines, creating grooves. Ink is then applied to these grooves, and the plate is pressed onto paper, transferring the design. The fineness of the lines here speaks to Salimbeni’s skill. But beyond that, printmaking had a specific role in early modern Europe. It was a key means of distributing images and ideas widely – almost an industrial process. So, in considering this delicate image, consider its original purpose: to disseminate faith through accessible means. It reminds us that art and craft are often deeply intertwined with social needs and technological advancements.