The Crypt 1888

This is The Crypt, an etching made by James Ensor. Etching involves drawing with a needle on a metal plate covered with wax, then submerging the plate in acid, which bites into the exposed lines. Ink is then applied and the plate is pressed onto paper, transferring the image. The character of the image is wholly dependent on this process. The precise nature of the marks, their depth and density, result from the alchemical interaction of metal, acid, and human skill. This is not high-tech wizardry; it’s a labor-intensive method, one that has been practiced for centuries. The image's stark contrast is a direct result of the deep etching, giving the crypt a sense of claustrophobia. Ensor's choice of etching for this particular subject contributes to its overall haunting atmosphere. It shows that the means of production can be just as significant as the final composition.