Illustration til digt af Erik Bøgh 1855

Carl Bøgh made this illustration to a poem by Erik Bøgh using etching, a printmaking technique known for its fine detail. The artwork is an intricate composition on paper, where the lines create the image. The etching process involves drawing an image with a sharp needle on a wax-coated metal plate. The plate is then immersed in acid, which bites into the exposed lines. The longer the plate sits in the acid, the deeper and darker the lines become. Once the plate is cleaned, ink is applied to its surface, filling the etched lines. Finally, the plate is pressed onto paper, transferring the ink and creating the print. The level of detail in Carl Bøgh’s illustration speaks to his skill in manipulating this technique. The delicate strokes create depth and texture, particularly evident in the depiction of nature and the figures’ garments. The labor-intensive nature of etching highlights the care and precision required to produce such a detailed image. By understanding the material process behind this illustration, we appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship involved.