Salmacis et Hermaphrodite c. 17th century

Stefano della Bella made this tiny print, Salmacis et Hermaphrodite, in the 17th century, using a process called etching. The image is created by incising lines into a metal plate, applying ink, and then pressing the plate onto paper. This wasn't just a commercial process; printmaking was also used by artists to explore ideas, and to share them more widely. The fine network of etched lines gives a sense of depth and texture. Look closely and you’ll see the subtle shading that models the figures and foliage. Etching allowed della Bella to create multiple copies of this image, making it accessible to a broader audience. The labor involved in creating each print—from preparing the plate to pulling the impression—speaks to the craft and skill of the printmaker. By focusing on the material and process, we gain a deeper appreciation for the artistic choices made and the cultural context in which it was created. And we can begin to question the traditional hierarchies that separate “fine art” from “craft.”