Wapen van Hendrik Casimir I, graaf van Nassau-Dietz 18th century

This is Wapen van Hendrik Casimir I, graaf van Nassau-Dietz, an anonymous print. This small printed piece, likely an engraving, is a fascinating example of early modern heraldry. Look closely, and you'll see the level of detail achieved through the precise, linear marks incised into the printing plate. The texture and weight of the lines define the symbols within the coat of arms - the lions, the deer, and the geometric patterns. The process of engraving, requiring skilled labor, imbues the artwork with a sense of craftsmanship. Consider the social context in which this print was made. It was likely produced as part of a larger system of political and economic exchange, reflecting the power and status of the Nassau-Dietz family. The very act of creating and distributing such prints speaks to the rise of print culture and its role in shaping social identities. Here, materials, making, and context converge, inviting us to appreciate the artistry and historical significance, while challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.