Seated Shepherd before a Flock of Goats after 1766

Francesco Londonio made this etching, "Seated Shepherd before a Flock of Goats," sometime in the 18th century. Look closely, and you can appreciate the demanding, repetitive labor that went into it. Londonio created this print by coating a metal plate with a waxy, acid-resistant substance, then drawing through it with a fine needle, exposing the metal. The plate was then submerged in acid, which bit into the lines, creating grooves. Finally, the plate was inked and pressed onto paper, transferring the image. It’s this indirect process that gives the print its particular character. The stark contrast of the line work against the blank paper, throwing the composition into sharp relief, demonstrates the skill of the artist, and the amount of work involved in the production process. Each mark represents a deliberate decision, a testament to the artist's vision and technical expertise. Londonio’s image invites us to consider the broader context of its making. By focusing on the materials, methods, and the labor, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the final artwork.