Male Terminal Figure; Head with Beard and Turban on a Three- Quarter Strapwork Pedestal 1538 - 1548

This sheet from around 1550 was made by Jean Mignon, who used etching to create this ornamental design. Etching, unlike engraving, involves coating a metal plate with wax, then scratching an image into the wax. The plate is then bathed in acid, which bites into the exposed metal. The resulting fine lines give this image its delicacy. Note how Mignon contrasted the solid areas of shading with the crisp outlines of the bearded figure and decorative garlands. This contrast allows the ornamental design to come forward. The printmaking process allowed Mignon to circulate his designs widely, influencing other artists and artisans. This reflects a shift in the 16th century, as prints facilitated the rapid spread of artistic ideas and tastes across Europe. So, next time you see an object with similar motifs, remember that it may owe its existence to the humble, yet powerful, medium of etching.