Mary, Queen of Scots (from "The History of England") 1752 - 1762

Robert Strange created this print of Mary, Queen of Scots using engraving, a printmaking technique. The image’s character emerges from the material processes that define it. Engraving involves incising an image onto a metal plate, which is then inked and pressed onto paper. Look closely, and you’ll see the crisp lines created by Strange’s tools. The density of these lines creates areas of light and shadow, defining Mary’s features and clothing. Printmaking in this era was a crucial medium for disseminating images and ideas widely. It democratized art, making portraits and historical scenes accessible to a broader audience beyond the elite. The labor-intensive nature of engraving reflects a pre-industrial mode of production, where skill and craftsmanship were highly valued. Considering the processes involved in its creation allows us to appreciate the artistry and cultural significance embedded within this small print, reminding us that even seemingly simple images are products of complex social and historical contexts.