Onthoofding van raadsheer Gosson te Atrecht, 1578 1588

This print, made by Frans Hogenberg around 1578, depicts the beheading of raadsheer Gosson in Atrecht. It was made using etching and engraving, techniques that allow for detailed, reproducible imagery, perfect for spreading political messages. The act of printing itself, a relatively new technology at the time, is crucial to understanding the artwork's purpose. Lines etched into a metal plate, inked, and then pressed onto paper, create a mirrored image. This process allows for the mass production of propaganda, influencing public opinion and immortalizing events like this execution. Look closely, and you can appreciate the labor-intensive process involved, from the initial design to the final print. The fine lines and details speak to Hogenberg's skill as a draughtsman and etcher. It reminds us that even seemingly straightforward images are the result of complex, historically situated practices. By focusing on the materiality and methods of production, we gain a deeper understanding of the artwork's power and purpose.