Twee vrouwen met tekens weegschaal (Libra) en schorpioen (Scorpio) van de dierenriem 1517 - 1650

This print, made by an anonymous artist, depicts two women representing Libra and Scorpio. It was created using engraving, a process involving meticulous labor. The image starts as a bare copper plate. The design is then incised by hand, using a tool called a burin to dig thin lines into the metal. Ink is then forced into these grooves, and the surface wiped clean. Finally, the plate is pressed onto paper, leaving an impression. As you can imagine, this is a time-consuming craft. Consider how this slow, deliberate process affects the image’s appearance. Note the precision of the lines, their crispness and clarity. Also, the monochrome palette, due to the nature of the printing process. This aesthetic is far from the painterly freedom that was emerging at this time. Prints like this one played a crucial role in disseminating knowledge and imagery. While only some could afford paintings, prints offered wider access. Appreciating the craft of engraving allows us to understand its cultural significance, beyond just aesthetics.