Studies van twee vrouwenbustes 1683 - 1733

Bernard Picart made this print of two women’s busts sometime between 1673 and 1733, using etching and engraving. These processes involve coating a metal plate with wax, drawing an image, and then using acid to bite away the exposed lines. The plate is then inked and printed, transferring the image to paper. The fine, precise lines that define the figures and the subtle gradations of tone show Picart’s expertise. You can almost feel the texture of the paper, the smooth skin of the subjects, and the folds of their garments. Printmaking was crucial in disseminating images and ideas. Etchings like this allowed for the relatively quick and cheap reproduction of artwork. The print medium democratized art, making it accessible to a broader audience, and fueled a growing market for images. This piece is a testament to the skilled labor involved in both artistic creation and the means of its distribution. It reminds us that even seemingly simple prints have a rich history, deeply connected to social, economic, and artistic developments.