Dragons 

Ernest Haskell created this print, called ‘Dragons’ using etching, a process that marries chemistry and craft. The image begins with a polished metal plate, likely copper or zinc. Haskell would have coated this with a waxy, acid-resistant ground, then used a sharp needle to draw his composition, exposing the metal beneath. Dipping the plate in acid then bites into these lines, creating grooves. The longer the acid bath, the deeper the lines, and the more ink they will hold. See how the varying line weights create depth and shadow, building up a rich, almost velvety texture. This manipulation of the etched line is crucial to the overall effect. Once the plate is inked and wiped, it's pressed onto paper, transferring the image. Printmaking allowed for the democratic distribution of images, reaching a wider audience beyond the elite art world. Haskell's choice of this medium speaks to a desire for accessibility, blurring the lines between fine art and popular consumption.