Zomer 1587 - 1595

Johann Sadeler I made this engraving, Zomer, using metal plates to capture a scene of rural life. This wasn’t just art, but a meticulous craft involving sharp tools and careful pressure to transfer images onto paper. Look closely, and you'll see the entire cycle of agricultural production: from the shearing of sheep in the foreground, to the harvesting of wheat in the fields. The textures Sadeler achieved are incredible, from the fleece of the sheep to the rough thatch of the buildings. Engravings like this were luxury goods but were also a form of mass communication. They circulated widely, carrying ideas about labor, land, and the seasons, reminding us that art is deeply intertwined with the economies and social structures of its time. This intricate print invites us to consider the labor-intensive processes behind both its creation and its subject matter.