Domitia en Titus worden mogelijk in de echt verbonden 1771

This engraving, made by Reinier Vinkeles, depicts a possible betrothal between Domitia and Titus. It was made using a technique called etching, where lines are incised into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed onto paper. The texture of the print is crucial here. Notice the fine, almost imperceptible lines that create the image. These lines weren’t drawn directly onto the paper, but rather, they were bitten into the metal by acid. This process, requiring great skill and patience, gives the print a unique quality of depth and tone. The subtle variations in line weight create a sense of light and shadow, bringing the scene to life. Consider too the social context of printmaking at this time. Etchings like this were often made in multiples, making art more accessible to a wider audience. The act of producing and distributing prints was a form of cultural production, influencing taste and circulating ideas. The artistry lies not only in the image itself, but also in the skilled labor and technical expertise required to bring it into being.