Horseman (Un cavalier) 1954

Marino Marini's "Horseman," is an intaglio print, likely made with etching or possibly aquatint, techniques that date back centuries. Look closely at the image. The grainy texture gives a sense of depth, almost like a charcoal drawing. This effect is achieved by biting the metal plate with acid, a process controlled by the artist's hand. The image feels spontaneous, but in fact, this belies the time and skill required to create it. Marini was part of a generation that looked to older, pre-industrial methods, in order to lend authenticity to their work. "Horseman" recalls earlier traditions of printmaking, but with a modernist twist. This piece speaks to the enduring relevance of traditional craft in the face of industrialization. It's a reminder that even in the age of mechanical reproduction, the artist's touch remains vital.