Buste van keizer Caracalla 1646 - 1670

This is an engraving by Hubert Quellinus, depicting a bust of Emperor Caracalla. It’s made through a printing process that involves cutting lines into a metal plate, which are then filled with ink and transferred to paper. The material qualities of the engraving—the fineness of the lines, the subtle gradations of light and shadow—all depend on the skill of the engraver. The process has a long history, linked to the rise of print culture and the dissemination of knowledge. Quellinus would have trained for years to master the techniques of engraving, learning to control the burin with precision and artistry. This was a labor-intensive process, demanding patience and dexterity. In a world increasingly dominated by mass production, it’s easy to overlook the value of such handcrafted skills. But by paying attention to the materials, techniques, and social context of the engraving, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the art of making, and challenge the traditional distinction between fine art and craft.