Liggende leeuw waarboven vogel c. 1657 - 1761

Marcus de Bye made this print of a resting lion and a bird sometime in the 17th century using etching. Etching is an intaglio printmaking technique where a metal plate, often copper, is coated with a waxy, acid-resistant substance called a ground. The artist then scratches an image into the ground with a pointed tool, exposing the metal. The plate is immersed in acid, which bites into the exposed lines, creating recessed marks. The depth and width of the lines are controlled by the strength of the acid and the duration of exposure. Ink is applied to the plate, filling the etched lines, and the surface is wiped clean. Finally, damp paper is pressed against the plate, transferring the ink from the recessed lines to the paper, resulting in a print. This print would have been made in multiples, meaning it was likely made for a wide consumer base. Through this relatively new process, images could be made affordable to everyday people.