Wandarm van voren en opzij 1667

Françoise Bouzonnet made this print, "Wall Arm from the Front and Side," sometime in the 17th century. She employed the etching process, cutting lines into a metal plate, inking it, and then pressing it onto paper. Here, we see two cherubic figures designed to be wall sconces. They embody the Baroque era’s love for elaborate ornamentation, each detail meticulously rendered. But what truly catches my eye is the process, the labor involved in creating such fine lines, and the skill needed to capture the play of light on the cherubs' forms. Bouzonnet’s artistry lies in her technique, transforming a metal plate into a delicate dance of light and shadow, elevating a functional design into the realm of fine art. It's a testament to the power of craft, and a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places.