A Windy Day c. 19th century

Stephen Parrish made this etching, A Windy Day, using a metal plate to create the image. The image is created by incising lines into the plate, which then hold ink, and is transferred to paper using a printing press. Notice how the etching process lends itself to a high level of detail. The cross-hatching and fine lines are perfect for capturing the atmospheric conditions, and the rough textures of the buildings. The etched lines bring a sense of depth, light, and shadow to the print. This printmaking method democratized artmaking, and allowed Parrish to reach a wider audience than traditional painting would. The labor involved in producing multiple prints also reflects the shift towards industrialization in the late 19th century. The level of work involved in creating the image, cutting the plate, and printing the image shows the dedication and effort involved in the printmaking process, thus challenging the traditional hierarchy between fine art and craft.