Nancy, from Diverses Veue et Perspectives nouvelles de Rome, Paris et des autres lieux 1640 - 1679

This print, titled "Nancy," was made by Israel Silvestre in the 17th century, using etching. The process of etching involves coating a metal plate with wax, scratching an image into the wax, and then submerging the plate in acid. The acid bites away the exposed metal, creating lines that hold ink. This printmaking technique allowed Silvestre to create a scene with incredibly fine detail, especially evident in the rendering of the foliage and the distant landscape. What is remarkable here is how he uses a relatively reproducible medium to evoke a sense of leisure, with figures scattered in a natural setting. The print would have been relatively affordable compared to unique works, making idealized scenes like this accessible to a wider audience and reflecting a growing market for picturesque views. Silvestre's choice of etching bridges the gap between high art and the emerging culture of printmaking, making art accessible to a broader public.