Hebe 1510 - 1569

Jacob Binck made this print, Hebe, using a metal plate, likely copper, and acid. It is an etching, a printmaking technique. The acid bites into the metal where the artist scratched away a protective coating, creating lines that hold ink. The density of these lines gives the print depth and shadow, which is important, as the lines help us understand the form of the figure. Look closely and you'll see how Binck varies the etching to create a sense of light and shadow, shaping Hebe’s body and the surrounding space. Prints like these were relatively affordable and accessible, making art available to a wider audience beyond the wealthy elite who could commission paintings or sculptures. The labor-intensive process of etching and printing also contrasts with the classical subject matter, reminding us of the skilled craftsmanship involved in art production. This challenges the traditional hierarchy between high art and craft, inviting us to appreciate both the artistic vision and the technical skill required to bring this image to life.