Optocht door de rederijkerskamer De Witte Ackoleyen uit Leiden (tweede deel), 1607 1607

This print, made by an anonymous artist in 1607, depicts a procession by the Leiden Chamber of Rhetoric, De Witte Ackoleyen. It’s made using engraving, a printmaking process where lines are incised into a metal plate, which then holds ink and transfers the design onto paper. The character of an engraving lies in its precision. The artist has absolute control over the line, describing details of costume and character with clarity. This precision mirrors the Chamber of Rhetoric's dedication to language and performance, where clarity and expression were prized. The choice of engraving for this image emphasizes these values, transforming a fleeting performance into a lasting record. But the medium also speaks to social context. Engraving was a relatively efficient means of image production, allowing for distribution of visual ideas. In this case, the print served not just as a memento of the performance, but also as a form of civic promotion, advertising the Chamber's cultural contributions to Leiden society. It challenges us to think beyond traditional categories, recognizing printmaking as a potent form of cultural and social commentary.