Portret van geestelijke Pier Francesco Passerini 1650

This print of Pier Francesco Passerini was made in Venice, likely in the late 17th century, by Giacomo Piccini. It’s an etching, a printmaking technique that involves using acid to cut into a metal plate, which is then inked and pressed onto paper. The sharp lines and fine detail, especially in Passerini’s face and clothing, show Piccini’s skill with the etching needle. Notice the careful hatching that creates tone and volume. The inscription, too, is sharply rendered, giving us a snapshot of Passerini's identity and status in society. Prints like these were products of a burgeoning capitalist system. They were relatively inexpensive to produce, and could be widely distributed, making images accessible to a broader audience. The making of the etching plate demanded expert craftsmanship, and the printing itself would have involved labor, all contributing to a network of production and consumption. By appreciating the materials and processes involved, we understand not only the image, but also the society in which it was made.