Schaal met gevogelte en moresken c. 1604 - 1620

This print, made with the intaglio technique of engraving, depicts fowl encircled by a decorative border. Engraving is an exacting process, where a design is cut into a metal plate, often copper. The plate is inked, and the surface wiped clean, leaving ink only in the incised lines. Pressed onto paper, the image emerges with crisp precision. Look closely, and you'll see how the varying depth and density of lines create light and shadow, giving volume to the birds. This print exemplifies the kind of replicable imagery that became widespread in Europe, as the technology of printmaking diffused. While the artist remains unknown, the technique used speaks to a lineage of skilled artisans, producing images for dissemination and consumption. The prevalence of prints like this reflects not only artistic skill, but also the economic forces that drove their production and distribution.