Elias gevoed door de raven 1728

Nicolas Pigné made this print, Elias gevoed door de raven, sometime in the 1700s. Here, the artist has used etching, a printmaking technique that relies on the controlled corrosion of metal. The matrix, likely a copper plate, would have been coated with a waxy, acid-resistant substance. Then, using a sharp needle, Pigné would have drawn the image, exposing the metal beneath. Finally, immersing the plate in acid would bite away at the lines, allowing for incredibly fine detail. The material qualities of etching lend themselves to a crisp, linear aesthetic, which Pigné uses to great effect. Note the intricate textures of the landscape and the delicate rendering of Elias’s robes. This medium also allows for the easy reproduction and dissemination of images, tying it to a wider context of print culture and information exchange. The degree of labor involved in creating such a print is significant, reflecting the skill and patience of the artist. Considering the material and making of a piece like this allows us to appreciate the artistry involved, moving beyond traditional notions of fine art and craft.