Costume Plate: Galla Serva 1552 - 1563

This is an engraving of Galla Serva, made in the mid-16th century by Enea Vico. Here, the artist incised lines onto a metal plate, which was then inked and printed, leaving us with this delicate image on paper. Engraving was a highly skilled craft, demanding precision and control. Vico's expertise is evident in the fine lines that define Galla's form, the texture of her clothing, and the subtle shading that gives depth to the scene. But what’s really interesting here is the commercial context. Prints like these were essentially a form of early mass media. They allowed for the relatively inexpensive reproduction and distribution of images, playing a key role in disseminating fashion trends and cultural ideals. The fashion industry in the 16th century was booming. These prints served as a way for people to stay up-to-date with the latest styles. So while we might think of this as a work of art today, it was initially conceived as a tool within a developing system of labor, production, and consumption. The image thus invites us to consider the interplay between art, craft, and commerce in shaping our visual world.