Vlucht van Lot uit Sodom 1728

This etching, "Vlucht van Lot uit Sodom," was made by Gilliam van der Gouwen around 1740. The printmaking technique involves meticulous carving into a metal plate, a skilled process demanding precision and control. The stark black lines against the white paper create a dramatic scene of flight and destruction. Notice the contrast between the figures of Lot and his family, and the crumbling city in the background. The labor-intensive process of etching allowed van der Gouwen to capture intricate details of the biblical narrative: Lot's family fleeing Sodom as it is destroyed by fire and brimstone. Consider the social context of printmaking during this period, where images were widely reproduced and disseminated. The act of making an etching involves technical skill and repetition. It reflects the rise of the print industry and its role in spreading religious and moral messages to a broader audience. Understanding the materials and processes involved in creating an etching allows us to see the artwork not just as a depiction of a biblical event, but also as a product of its time.