Lækatten 1845

Adolph Kittendorff created this etching, *Lækatten*, using a metal plate and strong acid. The process of etching begins with a polished metal plate covered in a waxy, acid-resistant ground. The artist then scratches an image into the ground with a needle, exposing the metal. When the plate is submerged in acid, the exposed lines are "bitten," creating incised lines. The remaining ground is removed, ink is applied to the plate, and the surface is wiped clean, leaving ink only in the etched lines. Finally, the plate is pressed onto paper, transferring the image. Here, Kittendorff’s skilled manipulation of the etching process is evident in the delicate lines and tonal variations that bring the scene to life. The technique results in a print with a unique texture and depth, qualities that reflect the labor-intensive, yet highly refined, nature of traditional printmaking.