Eerbewijzen van de Spanjaarden aan Karel III, 1706 1706

This print, made in 1706 by an anonymous artist, commemorates Spanish homages to Charles III. It’s made from etching, a process that uses acid to cut into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed, creating multiple identical images. The real power of etching lies in its capacity for detailed, linear description and distribution. Look closely, and you’ll see fine lines creating depth, texture, and intricate scenes of political significance. The labor-intensive process speaks to the commitment of the printmaker, but also to a network of workshops and distributors needed to get such prints into circulation. This wasn't just about artistic expression. It was about shaping public opinion, and declaring political loyalty across Europe. Materials and making are therefore central to the work’s meaning. Through this relatively inexpensive, reproducible medium, the artist could reach a broad audience, engaging them in the politics of monarchy, labor, and nationhood. This print blurs the line between art, propaganda, and historical record.