Arrie 1647

This print, "Arrie," was made by Gilles Rousselet in the 17th century. It's an engraving, meaning the image was incised into a metal plate, likely copper, using tools like burins and etching needles. Ink was then applied to the plate, and the high-pressure of the printing press transferred the image onto paper. Look closely, and you can see how the network of fine lines defines the forms, creating areas of light and shadow. The engraver's skill is evident in the textures, from the flowing fabric of Arrie's gown to the wispy clouds in the background. This was a laborious, skilled process, demanding years of training. Prints like this were a crucial means of disseminating images and ideas, functioning almost like a form of mass media, and enabling Rousselet to share his artistry widely. The work involved in production reflects a society that valued both artistic skill and the distribution of knowledge.