Velbekendt 1796 - 1802

M. W. Schmith made this print, titled "Velbekendt," using etching, a printmaking technique that relies on acid to bite into a metal plate, creating lines that hold ink. The essence of etching lies in the controlled corrosion of the metal, typically copper, to produce an image. This process is far more hands-on than it might seem. After coating the plate with a waxy, acid-resistant ground, the artist draws through the ground with a sharp needle, exposing the metal. The plate is then submerged in acid, which etches the exposed lines. The depth and width of the lines, and thus the darkness of the printed image, are controlled by the amount of time the plate spends in the acid bath. The level of detailing suggests that Schmith engaged with the copper plate for many hours, revealing a deep understanding of the delicate balance between material, process, and intention. This kind of image was easily reproducible, and could serve as a calling card of sorts.