Herfst 1637 - 1671

This print, "Herfst", was made at an unknown date by an anonymous artist using an engraving technique. Engraving involves using a tool called a burin to carve lines directly into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. This skilled, labor-intensive process allows for precise detail and tonal variation, which is evident in the textures of the woman’s garments and the surrounding objects, such as the wine barrels. The composition, featuring a woman representing autumn alongside symbols of wine production, tells us about 17th century Dutch culture. The choice of printmaking, as opposed to painting, made the image relatively affordable and repeatable. This allowed for wider circulation and consumption by a growing middle class with disposable income. Considering materials, making, and context helps us to fully appreciate this image, which may at first appear purely decorative. It offers a compelling glimpse into a particular moment in economic history, as consumer culture was really beginning to take hold.