Triktrakspelend paar c. 1621

This print, "Triktrakspelend paar," was made by Jacob Matham, around the turn of the 17th century. It's made using the intaglio process of engraving, where lines are cut into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. Matham's technique gives us a wealth of detail. Look closely, and you see how the lines work to create the illusion of light and shadow, texture and form. This isn't just a picture, it's a record of skilled labor. Each line is a deliberate mark, each cross-hatch carefully placed to build up tone. Think about the time and effort involved in creating this image, compared to the seemingly frivolous scene it depicts – a couple enjoying a game of backgammon, perhaps with a bit too much wine. Engravings like this one were luxury goods, catering to a wealthy clientele. They represent a complex relationship between artistic skill, material production, and the social lives of the Dutch elite. The print invites us to consider how these elements come together to create meaning, and how traditional distinctions between fine art and craft can often obscure a richer understanding of the past.