Twee hoofden van kinderen, een op de rug gezien 1620 - 1647

This delicate image of two children’s heads was created by Stefano della Bella, probably in Italy during the 17th century, using etching. Etching involves drawing with a sharp needle on a wax-coated metal plate, then bathing the plate in acid, which bites away at the exposed lines. The plate is then inked and printed, resulting in an image with a distinctive linear quality. Here, the artist uses etching to create subtle tonal variations, giving volume to the cherubic cheeks and delicate curls of the children. Note how the economy of line gives an impression of three-dimensionality, especially in the child’s head seen in profile. Etching was ideally suited to the dissemination of images. Prints like this one allowed artists to reach a wider audience, circulating their ideas and aesthetics beyond the confines of the art world. Consider the skilled labor involved in producing such an image, from preparing the plate to the printing process itself. Recognizing this labor helps us appreciate the full value and context of this seemingly simple artwork.