Gentleman with a Prostitute, Overlooked by a Procuress 1619 - 1623

This print, "Gentleman with a Prostitute, Overlooked by a Procuress," was made by Jacob Matham. The process of printmaking – specifically engraving, as seen here – is crucial to understanding the work's meaning. Engraving involves meticulously cutting lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and pressed onto paper. This intaglio technique results in fine, precise lines that capture intricate details. The material of the metal plate influences the aesthetic, allowing for sharp contrasts and textures. The production process speaks to the rise of a print culture in the 16th and 17th centuries. Prints were reproducible, so these were relatively accessible, circulating images and ideas widely. Matham’s print reflects the moralizing tone of the time, using the readily available medium to comment on social issues like prostitution and wealth disparities. By focusing on the materials and mode of production, we see how this artwork engages with broader social and economic contexts.