Landschap met figuur en vee 1613 - 1695

This landscape with figure and livestock was made by Nicolas Perelle in the 17th century using etching. This intaglio printmaking technique involves using acid to cut into a metal plate, which is then inked and pressed onto paper. The lines created through this process define the scene. The materials involved – metal, acid, ink, and paper – are humble, yet the effect is highly refined. Look closely, and you'll see how the etcher skillfully modulates line weight and density. It's through the process of mark-making that Perelle creates a sense of depth and texture. Etching allowed for relatively easy reproduction, playing a key role in disseminating images across Europe. Prints like this one brought landscapes into people’s homes, shaping perceptions of nature and pastoral life, as well as the human role within it. In a time of increasing urbanization, these images offered a romanticized view of the countryside. By focusing on process, we can see how a simple technique becomes a powerful tool for shaping culture and values.