The Adoration of the Shepherds 1750 - 1764

Francesco Bartolozzi created this print, "The Adoration of the Shepherds," sometime in the late 18th century, using a process known as etching. This method involves coating a metal plate with wax, scratching an image into it with a needle, and then bathing the plate in acid. The acid bites into the exposed metal, leaving incised lines that hold ink. The printmaker then wipes the plate clean, leaving ink only in the etched lines, and presses it onto paper. Look closely and you’ll see a fine, velvety texture, where the ink has been pressed onto the paper. Etching allowed for relatively quick reproduction and distribution of images. Bartolozzi was a master of this technique, and this image is a testament to his skill. He could create atmospheric effects and delicate lines to convey a scene of devotion and wonder. The print is not just an artwork, but also a product of its time, reflecting the rise of print culture and the increasing accessibility of images to a wider audience. It challenges the traditional hierarchy between fine art and the applied arts, as etching served both artistic and commercial purposes.