Tempel van de Sibylle in Tivoli 1618

Claes Jansz. Visscher made this print of the Temple of Sibyl at Tivoli, using etching, a printmaking technique that uses acid to corrode the unprotected parts of a metal surface to create a design. Visscher skillfully manipulates line to evoke the crumbling architecture and rugged landscape. The acid bites into the metal, leaving behind delicate furrows that capture light and shadow. Notice how the density of lines varies to suggest depth and texture, from the rough-hewn stones of the temple to the distant hills. While the image depicts a historical site, the print itself reflects the burgeoning print market of the Dutch Golden Age. Etchings like these were produced in multiples, making art accessible to a wider audience, and supporting artists like Visscher. The labor-intensive process of etching contrasts with the print's function as a commodity, highlighting the complex relationship between art, labor, and consumption. By considering the materials, making, and context, we can fully appreciate the artistry and significance of Visscher's print.