Jaarmarkt te Impruneta nabij Florence after 1620

Salomon Savery created this print of a fair in Impruneta, near Florence, using etching and engraving techniques. These processes, rooted in the craft tradition, allowed for the detailed depiction of a bustling marketplace. The material qualities of the print, with its fine lines and tonal variations, capture the energy of the fair. Each figure and stall is rendered with precision, inviting the viewer to explore the scene. The work involved in creating such a detailed print was considerable, requiring skill and patience. Savery would have used a sharp tool called a burin to carve lines into a metal plate, which was then inked and pressed onto paper. Prints like this played a crucial role in disseminating images and information during the early modern period. They were often commissioned to document important events or places, reflecting a growing interest in commerce and trade. The print not only captures the event, but also offers a glimpse into the economic and social life of the time. By considering the materials, making, and context of this print, we gain a deeper understanding of its significance beyond its aesthetic appeal.